When it comes to writing letters, adding a postscript (abbreviated as P.S.) is a common practice. The postscript is used to include additional thoughts, anecdotes, or important details that may have been forgotten in the main body of the letter. It acts as a way to add an extra touch or provide closure to your letter. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “P.S.” in both formal and informal letter writing, offering tips and examples along the way.
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1. Formal Ways to Say “P.S.” in a Letter
When writing a formal letter, such as a business correspondence or an important communication, it’s essential to maintain a polite and professional tone. Here are some phrases you can use instead of “P.S.” in a formal context:
1.1. Additional Note
If you wish to add a postscript, you can use the phrase “Additional note” to maintain formality. For example:
Dear Mr. Johnson,
Thank you for considering my proposal. Additional note: I wanted to inform you about the upcoming conference next week, which might be of interest to our team.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
1.2. In Conclusion
Using “In conclusion” is another way to convey that you have an important addendum after the main content. It gracefully leads the reader to your final thoughts. Here’s an example:
Dear Mrs. Anderson,
I hope this letter finds you well. In conclusion, I would like to highlight the achievements made by our team over the past quarter. It’s been a remarkable journey and we are grateful for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
2. Informal Ways to Say “P.S.” in a Letter
For casual or personal letters, the tone is more relaxed and a friendly approach is encouraged. Here are a few alternatives to “P.S.” that suit an informal context:
2.1. By the Way
“By the way” is an effective way to introduce an additional thought or comment in a laid-back manner. Consider the following example:
Hey Emma!
It’s been a while since we last caught up. By the way, I stumbled upon an old photo of us the other day and it brought back so many wonderful memories. Shall we plan a reunion soon?
Take care,
[Your Name]
2.2. Just a Reminder
If you need to remind the recipient about something specific, “Just a reminder” is a suitable phrase to use. Here’s an example:
Dear Chris,
Thank you for agreeing to help me with the project. Just a reminder: don’t forget to bring the necessary documents for our meeting tomorrow. Looking forward to working together!
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
3. When to Use “P.S.” Regardless of Formality
While it is common to find alternatives to “P.S.” in both formal and informal letters, there are situations where using the original abbreviation is appropriate.
Here are a few instances when “P.S.” can be used regardless of the letter’s tone:
- Adding a quick afterthought or an important piece of information.
- Highlighting an urgent matter that couldn’t be included earlier.
- Emphasizing a key point to ensure the reader doesn’t overlook it.
Remember, whether you choose to use an alternative phrase or stick with the traditional “P.S.”, it is crucial to maintain clarity, coherence, and a warm tone throughout your letter.
4. Wrapping Up
Adding a postscript can be a valuable tool when writing letters. It allows you to include important details or thoughts that may have been overlooked earlier. When writing a formal letter, phrases like “Additional note” or “In conclusion” can be used instead of “P.S.” to maintain professionalism. In informal letters, “By the way” or “Just a reminder” serve as friendly alternatives. Remember to choose the appropriate option based on the tone and purpose of your letter. Whether you opt for an alternative or use “P.S.” itself, your letter will benefit from this thoughtful addition. Happy letter writing!
