Translation guide
The English word "sincerely" is used in two main ways: as a letter closing and as an adverb meaning "genuinely" or "honestly." In Japanese, these are expressed very differently. For letters, set phrases are used depending on formality. For the adverb, common words like 本当に (hontō ni) or 心から (kokoro kara) are used, but the best choice depends on the nuance.
Sincerely (in a letter/email)
Formal letter closing, used after 拝啓 (haikei) opening.
Sincerely (in a casual letter/email)
Used by women in informal letters.
The word used at the end of a letter or email before signing your name.
Sincerely, John · Yours sincerely, · Sincerely yours,
Standard formal closing in Japanese letters, used with the opening 拝啓 (haikei). Common in business and formal personal correspondence.
Dear Sir/Madam, I hope this letter finds you well as the warm spring weather arrives. Sincerely,
Informal closing used primarily by women in personal letters. Often paired with the opening 拝啓 (haikei) or used alone.
Let's hang out again soon. Sincerely,
Informal closing used by men in personal letters. Paired with the opening 前略 (zenryaku) which skips seasonal greetings.
Hey, thanks for the other day. Sincerely,
Used in business emails to mean 'Sincerely' or 'Best regards' when sending a quick message. More common in email than letters.
Details to follow. Sincerely,
In very casual emails or messages between friends, no closing is needed. Just end with your name or nothing at all.
Talk to you later. Taro
Expressing that a feeling, statement, or action is true and heartfelt.
I sincerely apologize. · Thank you sincerely. · I sincerely hope that...
The most common and versatile way to say 'sincerely' as an adverb. Works in most contexts.
Literally 'from the heart,' used for deep sincerity, especially with gratitude, apologies, or sympathy.
Formal and often used in business or official contexts. Pairs well with apologies and thanks.
Means 'with all my heart' or 'sincerely,' often used when making something or doing an action with care and genuine feeling.
I made this sincerely (with all my heart).
Strongly and sincerely, used with verbs like 願う (negau, to wish) or 望む (nozomu, to hope). Formal and somewhat literary.
本当に (hontō ni) is the safest and most common choice for 'sincerely' as an adverb. 心から (kokoro kara) emphasizes deep emotion and is best for heartfelt thanks or apologies. 誠に (makoto ni) is very formal and often used in business or official apologies. Avoid 誠に in casual conversation.
I'm sincerely happy.
I'm truly happy from the bottom of my heart.
I am sincerely delighted. (very formal)
English letter closings like 'Sincerely' or 'Yours sincerely' do not translate directly into Japanese. Use the set phrases 敬具 (keigu) for formal letters, かしこ (kashiko) for women's informal letters, or 草々 (sōsō) for men's informal letters. Using 本当に or 心から as a letter closing would be unnatural.
Sincerely, I don't know.
Here 'sincerely' means 'honestly,' so 正直 (shōjiki) is more natural.
I sincerely hope you get well soon.
I sincerely apologize.
I sincerely appreciate it.
I offer my sincere condolences.
誠に申し訳ございません。
I am sincerely sorry.
Thank you very sincerely.
切にお願い申し上げます。
I sincerely request this of you.