Ending an email professionally and appropriately is crucial in any culture, and Japan is no exception. Knowing how to close your email correctly can significantly impact your professional relationships and leave a lasting positive impression. This guide provides easy ways to master the art of ending an email in Japanese, catering to various levels of formality.
Understanding Japanese Email Closings: Formality Matters
The key to mastering Japanese email closings lies in understanding the level of formality required. The relationship with the recipient heavily influences your choice of closing. Is it a client, a superior, a colleague, or a friend? This dictates the appropriate level of politeness.
Key Factors Influencing Your Choice:
- Relationship with the recipient: A formal closing is needed for superiors, clients, and unfamiliar contacts. A less formal closing is suitable for colleagues and close acquaintances.
- Context of the email: A formal email regarding business matters requires a formal closing. An informal email to a friend might allow for a more casual sign-off.
- Your seniority: Your position within the company might influence the formality level you use, even when addressing colleagues.
Common Japanese Email Closings: A Graded Approach
Here are some common email closings, categorized by formality:
Formal Closings (敬具 - Keigu, 拝啓 - Haikei):
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敬具 (Keigu): This is the most common and generally safe formal closing. It translates to "Respectfully," and is suitable for most professional emails, especially to superiors or clients. Use this unless you have a specific reason to choose otherwise.
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拝啓 (Haikei): This is a more traditional and formal opening, often used in letters rather than emails. It translates to "Honorable Sir/Madam" and, while not inherently wrong in emails, it might feel overly formal in modern business communication.
Semi-Formal Closings:
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よろしくお願いいたします (Yoroshiku onegai itashimasu): This phrase means "I humbly request your kind consideration" or "Please continue to treat me kindly." It's a polite and versatile closing expressing hope for continued good relations. It's suitable for most professional contexts, especially when maintaining an ongoing relationship.
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今後ともよろしくお願いいたします (Kongo tomo yoroshiku onegai itashimasu): This is a slightly longer version of the above, adding "in the future" (今後とも - kongo tomo). Use this when hoping for continued cooperation or support.
Informal Closings (友達、同僚向け - Friends and Colleagues):
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Best regards (ベストレガード): While English, this is widely understood and acceptable in informal emails, especially with younger colleagues or those comfortable with English.
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regards (レガード): A shorter, equally acceptable version of the above.
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また (Mata): Meaning "again" or "see you later," this is suitable for informal emails to friends or close colleagues.
Beyond the Closing: Essential Email Etiquette
Mastering the closing is just one piece of the puzzle. Remember these points for polished Japanese emails:
- Use polite language: Avoid overly casual language or slang.
- Proofread carefully: Errors can create a negative impression.
- Consider using Japanese characters: Unless specifically requested otherwise, sticking to Japanese characters shows respect and professionalism.
Optimizing Your Japanese Email Skills
Practice is key! Experiment with different closings in simulated email scenarios to build your confidence. The more you write and use these closings in context, the better your grasp of appropriate email etiquette will become.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently and appropriately end your Japanese emails, leaving a positive and professional impression on your recipients. Remember to always consider your relationship with the recipient and the context of the email when choosing a closing. Good luck!
