Formal Letters
When writing to a business or someone you don't know well, you must use a formal structure and polite tone.
The Greeting
The Opening
The Request
Closing & Sign-off
Faithfully vs. Sincerely
Formal Writing 🎬
Watch Teacher Sopheak guide you through writing a polite, formal email requesting hotel information.
Knowledge Check ⚡
Writing Mission 🎯
Writing Mission 🎯
Writing Mission 🎯
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Recent Questions
Hi Nita! It's best to avoid "Hello" or "Hi" for formal business inquiries, even in an email. "Dear Sir or Madam" or "Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]" shows respect and professionalism. Save "Hello" for colleagues you already know well! ✉️
What exactly does "inquire" mean? Is it different from "ask"?
Good question! "Inquire" means exactly the same thing as "ask for information." However, "inquire" is much more formal and polite, which is why we use it in business letters! 📚
Teacher, can I use "Hello" to start a formal letter if it's just an email?