Deciding between Sincerely and Sincerly can trip up even seasoned writers and English learners alike. This guide will help clarify which version is correct and why, ensuring your future emails and letters make the best impression.
The correct word is sincerely. “Sincerely” is an adverb used to end formal letters or emails, indicating that you are being honest and genuine. The word “sincerly” is a common misspelling and does not exist in English.
For example, you might conclude a professional email with “I look forward to your response. Sincerely, John Doe.” This shows that John is expressing genuine sentiment.
Understanding Common Spelling Choices
Have you ever written a word, eyed it suspiciously, and wondered, “Is that really how it’s spelled?” It happens to the best of us. The English language can be tricky with its rules and exceptions.
The Case of ‘Sincerely’ and ‘Sincerly’
Let’s talk about how we finish off our letters. That small word at the end before you sign your name: is it sincerely or sincerly? It seems straightforward enough, but this is where even seasoned writers can trip.
Which One is Correct?
If you’ve ever questioned whether to write sincerely or sincerly, let’s clear that up. Sincerely is the correct spelling. The adverb is derived from the adjective ‘sincere’, meaning pure, genuine, or heartfelt. When you add the -ly, it turns the adjective into an adverb, describing how you are doing something – in this case, how you are writing your letter.
‘Sincerly’ might seem right to some people. Maybe it’s easier to write or say, but it’s actually a misspelling. It doesn’t follow the general rule of forming adverbs where we add -ly to the end of an adjective.
Examples in Action
Consider these sentences:
- I wish you well, sincerely, Bob.
- Yours sincerely, Mary.
In these examples, ‘sincerely’ works as a polite adverb that shows respect and integrity in a formal closure of a letter.
Why Do Such Spelling Confusions Occur?
Why do people write sincerly if it’s incorrect? It’s usually because of how we say words aloud. Sometimes, when speaking, we drop sounds that don’t easily roll off the tongue.
How To Remember the Right Spelling
Here’s a simple trick. Think of the base word sincere. If you never forget the ‘e’ at the end of ‘sincere’, adding ‘-ly’ becomes easy. After all, you wouldn’t write ‘sincer,’ would you?
Using ‘Sincerely’ in Everyday Writing
‘Sincerely’ isn’t just for the end of letters. It’s versatile. Look at these illustrations:
- I sincerely hope you understand the explanation.
- She believes sincerely that it’s the best decision.
In these cases, ‘sincerely’ modifies the verbs ‘hope’ and ‘believes,’ detailing the writer’s heartfelt truth in their declaration.
Is It Used in All Types of Letters?
You might wonder, does ‘sincerely’ fit in all letter endings? Mostly, yes, in formal correspondence. For casual notes to friends or family, it might feel a bit stiff.
For informal settings, something like “best wishes” or “cheers” might seel more natural. It’s all about matching the tone to the situation.
Conclusion
When it comes to formal correspondence, sticking to ‘sincerely’ is your best bet for closing a letter properly. By using ‘sincerely’, you are not only following the norms of good grammar but also respectfully concluding your message.
Next time you find yourself writing an email or a letter, remember this little lesson. It will spare you the micro-moment of doubt about whether your word choice is correct, allowing you to sign off with confidence.
Remember, using the correct form not only shows respect to the recipient but also enhances the clarity and effectiveness of your communication. So, why not give it a try in your next letter?
