un cordial saludo
/un koɾdjal saludo/from spelling rules
un cordial saludo is the Spanish way to say warm regards.
This phrase is a polite closing used at the end of letters or professional emails. While un cordial saludo is a standard way to close, you may also see Saludos Cordiales used to convey warm regards in formal settings.
Meaning: polite closing of a letter (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to 'a cordial greeting'.
Which one should you use?
While un cordial saludo is formal, the single word saludos is a more casual way to say 'greetings' or 'regards' in semi-formal or friendly contexts.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
un cordial saludo is a standard formal closing used in professional emails and letters. For much more informal settings, you might use Con Cariño (with affection) among friends or family or Un Fuerte Abrazo (a strong hug) to show deep friendship or affection.
Is it said differently in some regions?
un cordial saludo is a popular formal expression used in professional and business contexts in Latin America.
How does it change in a sentence?
You can use the plural form cordiales saludos to achieve a similar level of formality.
How do you pronounce it?
/un koɾdjal saludo/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, closing a professional email with un fuerte abrazo is quite common among colleagues who have an established relationship, whereas in English, 'a strong hug' would be seen as unprofessional.
- The word cordial comes from the Latin cor, meaning 'heart'. While the English 'cordial' often refers to a sweet drink, in Spanish it maintains a direct link to heartfelt sincerity.
- The phrase un cordial saludo is often seen as more 'distance-maintaining' than the English 'warm regards', as it follows a very rigid, traditional structure of professional etiquette.
Examples in context
- Le envío un cordial saludo.I send you warm regards.
- Reciba un cordial saludo de nuestra parte.Please accept warm regards from us.
- Termino el correo con un cordial saludo.I end the email with warm regards.
Example conversation
Elena and Alejandro are exchanging professional emails.
- ElenaHola Alejandro, adjunto el documento.Hello Alejandro, I have attached the document.
- AlejandroGracias Elena, lo revisaré mañana.Thank you Elena, I will review it tomorrow.
- ElenaPerfecto, quedo atenta a sus comentarios.Perfect, I look forward to your comments.
- AlejandroMuy bien. Un cordial saludo.Very well. Warm regards.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cordial, saludo, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
