dear addressee

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dear addressee" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal correspondence, such as letters or emails, to address the recipient politely. Example: "Dear addressee, I hope this message finds you well."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Dear, dear, dear.

Independent

By A. B. Kane and Geoffrey T. Hellman The New Yorker, August 11 , 1956P. 17 Letter from the Boston Edison Company found in a mailbox in Boston several weeks after the death of the addressee: "Dear Madam: Your recent cheek for $8.71 has been returned to us by the bank, marked "maker deceased".

The New Yorker

Mr. Deedes, who was also a former cabinet minister and member of Parliament, was famous during Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher's tenure as the make-believe addressee of "Dear Bill," a series of mock letters in the British satirical magazine Private Eye.

The New York Times

Next, start the body of the letter with "Dear (name)." Use the addressee's name if you know it, or you can use the general title of the person doing the hiring.

WikiHow

"Dear Patron," it said, "On Jan . 25 of last yearyou sent a telegram to Richard B.--on the occasion of the addressee's Birthday.

The New Yorker

"To Addressee!

The New Yorker

and saved by addressee.

The New Yorker

So two letters went to each addressee.

The New York Times

I will always be the addressee.

The New Yorker

"Oh, dear, dear, dear".

The New Yorker

Dear oh dear Roger Moore.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dear addressee" in formal written communication when the specific name of the recipient is unknown but you want to maintain a polite and respectful tone. Consider it suitable for cover letters or official inquiries.

Common error

Avoid using "dear addressee" in informal contexts or when the recipient's name is known. Using a direct name (e.g. "Dear John") is more appropriate and personal in most cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dear addressee" functions as a formal salutation in written communication. It serves to address the recipient of a letter or email politely when their specific name is unknown. According to Ludwig, this phrase is usable in written English and is typically used in formal correspondence.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dear addressee" serves as a formal salutation when the recipient's name is unknown. Ludwig indicates the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for formal contexts, such as cover letters and official correspondence. However, it is important to use it cautiously, as it may sound overly formal in less official communications. While acceptable, consider more personalized alternatives when possible, as using an overly generic salutation may be perceived as impersonal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Dear recipient

This alternative is slightly less formal, but still general and applicable when the recipient's name is unknown.

Dear sir or madam

This is a traditional formal salutation, specifying gender when the recipient is unknown.

Dear customer

Used to address a customer in business correspondence, more personal than "to whom it may concern".

Dear colleague

Used to address a colleague in professional correspondence, indicating a working relationship.

To whom it may concern

This is a very formal and impersonal salutation used when the recipient's name is unknown.

Dear reader

This salutation is suitable when addressing a general audience of readers, such as in a publication.

Greetings

This is a neutral and somewhat formal greeting, less personal than "dear".

Dear friend

This is a more personal salutation, suitable for someone known to the sender.

Hello

This is a more informal and general greeting, suitable for less formal contexts.

Attention:

This is a very direct and business-like way to address an unknown recipient, often used in memos.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "dear addressee"?

Use "dear addressee" in formal correspondence when the recipient's name is unknown and a formal tone is required. It's suitable for cover letters or official inquiries.

What are some alternatives to "dear addressee"?

Alternatives include "to whom it may concern", "dear recipient", or "dear sir or madam", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "dear addressee" too formal for an email?

While grammatically correct, "dear addressee" can sound overly formal in emails. Consider using "hello" or "dear recipient" as less stiff alternatives.

Can I use "dear addressee" if I know the recipient's title but not their name?

If you know the recipient's title, it's more appropriate to use "Dear [Title]" (e.g. "Dear Hiring Manager") instead of "dear addressee".