Business
Letters
Avoid Overused Phrases
Many business letters contain hackneyed phrases that detract
from a clear, natural style. You need to look for them in
your writing and use fresh, clear expression instead. Look
at this list and see if you recognize any from your letters:
according to our records
on
receipt of
after careful consideration
please do not hesitate to
any further action
please find enclosed
as you are aware
please forward
at your earliest convenience
trust this is satisfactory
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detailed information
under
separate cover
enclosed for your information
upon receipt of
for your convenience
urgent attention
further to
we acknowledge receipt
in receipt of
we regret to advise
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Look at these examples from typical business letters and
you’ll see how removing the business clichés
changes the tone of the sentence. The originals have a formal
and impersonal tone; the redrafts sound more personal and
genuine.
Original:
We trust this is satisfactory, but should you have any
further questions please do not hesitate to contact us.
Redraft:
We hope you are happy with this arrangement but if you
have any questions, please contact us.
Original:
Further to your recent communication. Please
find enclosed the requested quotation…
Redraft:
Thank you for contacting us. I enclose the quotation
you asked for…
Hackneyed business phrases ruin a clear natural style; so
avoid using them and choose your own words instead.
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