atentamente
/aˌtentaˈmente/formal
In Spanish, 'yours sincerely' is translated as atentamente.
The term atentamente is a common Spanish equivalent for 'Yours Sincerely' and is suitable for formal and business contexts. Other polite variations include Le saluda atentamente, which means 'I send you my regards attentively' and Reciba un cordial saludo, a formal closing that conveys a cordial and respectful tone.
Meaning: polite formulaic end to letters (adj)
Which one should you use?
Atentamente is used for formal business or official letters, whereas un abrazo is a common way to end letters or emails to friends and acquaintances.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Atentamente is the standard formal closing for professional correspondence. For a warm and friendly way to end a letter or email with someone you have a close bond with, use the informal un abrazo.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, it is common to use Saluda a usted atentamente or Le saluda cordialmente in formal letters. In some parts of Spain, Afectuosamente may be used as an affectionate alternative to Atentamente in formal contexts.
How do you pronounce it?
/aˌtentaˈmente/
Did you know?
- Because atentamente is so professional, using it with a friend can actually feel cold or even sarcastic. If you want to show warmth in a semi-formal way, you should switch to un cordial saludo instead.
- The root of atentamente is the Latin word mēns, which means 'mind'. This reveals that the word is not just about being 'attentive', but is etymologically tied to the concept of 'mental' engagement or thought.
- The closing un abrazo literally means 'a hug' and is used in emails to people you know, even if you do not physically hug them in person.
Examples in context
- Atentamente, Juan Pérez.Sincerely, Juan Pérez.
- Se despide atentamente la dirección.The management sends its best regards.
- Atentamente, el departamento de ventas.Sincerely, the sales department.
Example conversation
Sofía and Daniel are reviewing a formal business letter.
- SofíaDaniel, ¿cómo debo cerrar esta carta?Daniel, how should I close this letter?
- DanielEs un correo formal, usa atentamente.It is a formal email, use 'yours sincerely'.
- SofíaTengo razón, así suena más profesional.You're right, it sounds more professional that way.
- DanielExacto, así es correcto.Exactly, that is correct.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “yours sincerely” translations and entries atentamente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries atentamente, CC BY-SA 4.0.
