formal salutations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formal salutations" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to greetings or openings in formal correspondence, such as letters or emails. An example is: "In formal salutations, it is customary to use titles and last names." Alternative expressions include "formal greetings" and "official salutations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Address the person you're writing to formally using Ms., Mr., Dr., etc. Remember formal salutations to match the tone of your letter.

WikiHow

Counselors urge using formal salutations, being respectful and avoiding using all uppercase or lowercase letters.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Typing a formal salutation or sign-off with one's thumbs strains even the starchiest correspondent.

The Economist

But respect is a lot more than the robotic use of formal salutation and sign off.

The Economist

They called her Ms. Tonya, the formal salutation paired with the informal first name that is part of the culture of manners in West Tennessee.

The New York Times - Sports

Open with a formal salutation.

WikiHow

Start with a formal salutation: Dear Mr./Ms./Mrs.

WikiHow

Use a formal salutation below the tenant's name and address.

WikiHow

Finish it with a formal salutation, a signature and your name and title.

WikiHow

In all other cases, a formal salutation should be used followed by a colon.

WikiHow

In your letter of resignation, include the following: A formal salutation to your supervisor and/or others notified.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing formal correspondence, always research the recipient's preferred title and use it in your "formal salutations".

Common error

Avoid starting a formal letter or email with casual greetings like "Hi" or "Hey". Stick to more conventional options like "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name]" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formal salutations" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to describe the act of initiating communication in a professional or respectful manner. As Ludwig AI notes, it refers to the specific greetings used in formal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "formal salutations" refers to greetings used in professional or respectful settings. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its usage is most common in Wiki, News & Media, and Formal & Business contexts. When using "formal salutations", remember to research the recipient and avoid overly familiar language. Some alternatives include "official greetings" and "proper address". It is advisable to stick to accepted forms of address to maintain a professional tone in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formal address

This is a direct synonym, simply replacing "salutations" with "address", which refers to the way someone is spoken to or written to.

official greetings

Replaces "salutations" with "greetings", indicating a slightly broader scope, encompassing any form of official welcome.

ceremonial greetings

Emphasizes the ritualistic and conventional nature of the greetings, implying adherence to specific customs or protocols.

conventional address

Focuses on the established and accepted manner of addressing someone in a formal context, highlighting adherence to etiquette.

proper address

Indicates the use of correct and appropriate forms of address, focusing on avoiding errors in etiquette.

respectful greetings

Highlights the intention to show respect through the form of greeting used, emphasizing the politeness aspect.

courteous greetings

Focuses on the politeness and good manners conveyed by the salutations, stressing the civil nature of the interaction.

prescribed greetings

Emphasizes that the form of greeting is dictated by rules or customs, indicating a strong expectation of adherence.

traditional greetings

Highlights the historical or cultural roots of the salutations, emphasizing their long-standing use and significance.

decorous address

Suggests the use of greetings that are characterized by propriety and good taste, emphasizing the avoidance of anything unseemly.

FAQs

How do I choose the right "formal salutations"?

Consider your relationship with the recipient and the context of your communication. Use titles (Mr., Ms., Dr.) and last names unless you're specifically invited to use a first name. If unsure, err on the side of formality.

What are some alternatives to "formal salutations"?

Depending on the context, you could use "official greetings", "proper address", or "conventional address" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it acceptable to use "To Whom It May Concern" as one of the "formal salutations"?

While sometimes necessary, "To Whom It May Concern" is generally considered impersonal. Try to find a specific contact person to address instead. If that's not possible, it is an acceptable, if less desirable, option.

What follows one of the "formal salutations" in a letter?

In American English, a colon typically follows a formal salutation (e.g., Dear Mr. Smith:). In British English, a comma is more common (e.g., Dear Mr. Smith,).