faithfully yours

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "faithfully yours" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a closing in formal letters, especially in correspondence where the sender wishes to convey loyalty or commitment. Example: "Thank you for your continued support and understanding. Faithfully yours, John."

✓ Grammatically correct

Formal & Business

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

In expressing to you my cordial thanks for your kind interest in my tribulations, I am with devoted greetings and the request that you convey my respects to your esteemed wife, very faithfully yours, Westphal.

Princeton University

Respectfully and faithfully yours".

The Guardian

Faithfully Yours CHARLES DICKENS Instead, I made do with the usual feeble promise: Back soon.

The New Yorker

The K.K.K. made a thousand-dollar donation to the University of Virginia; the school's president at the time, E. A. Alderman, signed his thank-you note "Faithfully yours".

The New Yorker

One such relationship was between Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, who wrote to Anne Wortley in 1709: "Nobody was so entirely, so faithfully yours.

Wikipedia

It may be it is our brother, but God only knows ... one cannot help having a thousand fears and melancholy thoughts, but whatever changes may happen you shall ever find me firm to my religion and faithfully yours".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

To write your signature, leave a blank space under the Yours faithfully or Yours sincerely where you can write in your signature by hand.

WikiHow

Use Yours sincerely or Yours faithfully.

WikiHow

Yours faithfully, Jan Morris".

Independent

Yours faithfully Abdul-Hakim.

Independent

Yours faithfully... TIM RACE.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the tone of your letter matches the formality of the closing. "Faithfully yours" is best suited for serious or professional communications.

Common error

Avoid using "faithfully yours" in casual emails or personal notes to friends and family. It can sound overly formal and out of place. Opt for closings like "Sincerely", "Best", or "Cheers" in these situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "faithfully yours" functions as a complimentary close in formal correspondence. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it is typically used to conclude a letter or email, expressing respect and sincerity toward the recipient. It signals the end of the message and provides a polite farewell.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

23%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

20%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "faithfully yours" is a formal closing used in written correspondence, primarily when the recipient's name is unknown. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to convey respect and formality. While it is most frequently found in news articles and formal business communications, it is less common in informal contexts. When deciding whether to use "faithfully yours", consider the relationship with the recipient and the overall tone of your message. If formality is desired, "faithfully yours" remains a suitable choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Sincerely yours

This is a more common and slightly less formal alternative, suitable for a broader range of contexts.

Yours sincerely

This alternative is used when you know the name of the person you are writing to; it is a standard formal closing.

Respectfully yours

This phrase indicates a higher degree of deference, often used when addressing someone of higher rank or authority.

Yours respectfully

Similar to "Respectfully yours", this closing emphasizes the respect given to the recipient.

Truly yours

A simple and direct closing that conveys sincerity.

Yours truly

A standard closing that conveys sincerity and respect.

Best regards

A semi-formal closing suitable for professional emails and letters, expressing good wishes.

Kind regards

Similar to "Best regards", this closing is polite and appropriate for many professional settings.

With gratitude

This closing is used to express thankfulness to the recipient.

Cordially

A warm and friendly closing, suitable for both personal and professional correspondence.

FAQs

When should I use "faithfully yours"?

Use "faithfully yours" in formal correspondence, especially when you do not know the name of the person you are addressing. It conveys respect and formality.

Is "faithfully yours" too formal for an email?

It depends on the context. For formal emails to unknown recipients, it is appropriate. However, for casual or routine emails, consider using alternatives like "sincerely" or "best regards".

What is the difference between "faithfully yours" and "sincerely yours"?

"Faithfully yours" is traditionally used when you don't know the recipient's name (starting with 'Dear Sir/Madam'), while "sincerely yours" is used when you do (starting with 'Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]').

What are some alternatives to "faithfully yours"?

Alternatives include "sincerely yours", "respectfully yours", "yours truly", or "best regards", depending on the level of formality required.