complimentary close

[ kom-pluh-men-tuh-ree klohz, ‐-men-tree ]

noun

1. the part of a letter that by convention immediately precedes the signature, as “Very truly yours,” “Cordially,” or “Sincerely yours.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of complimentary close¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

Washington's answer is cheerful, and its complimentary close exceptionally cordial.

From Project Gutenberg

The complimentary close of the letter is followed by a comma and the signature by a period.

From Project Gutenberg

A better plan is to have another person take care of the entire letter, beginning it something like, “Since Mr. Blake is away from the office to-day he has asked me to let you know——” The complimentary close to a business letter should be “Yours truly,” “Yours sincerely” or something of the kind, and not “Yours cordially,” “Yours faithfully” or “Yours gratefully” unless the circumstances warrant it.

From Project Gutenberg

The complimentary close should be written on a separate line near the middle of the page, and should begin with a capital letter.

From Project Gutenberg

Appropriateness is the only guide to the choice of a complimentary close.

From Project Gutenberg