Translation guide
A formal letter closing in English. In Japanese, letter closings depend on the relationship, formality, and season. There is no single direct equivalent.
The writer wants to end a formal letter with a standard polite closing.
The most common formal closing, used in business and official correspondence. It pairs with the opening 拝啓 (はいけい).
Dear Sir/Madam, I hope this letter finds you well. ... Sincerely,
A very formal and respectful closing, often used in letters to superiors or in ceremonial contexts.
... I humbly request the above. Respectfully yours,
The writer wants to end a personal letter with a warm but not overly formal closing.
A standard closing for personal letters, especially used by women. It is polite but not as stiff as 敬具.
I look forward to seeing you again. Sincerely,
A casual closing used between friends or close acquaintances. It implies a quick, informal note.
The writer wants to add a seasonal touch or a more literary feel to the closing.
Literally 'at this time', used in formal letters to acknowledge the current season. Often combined with a seasonal greeting before the closing.
I hope you are enjoying the continuing blessings of the season.
The phrase 'very truly yours' has no direct Japanese equivalent. Using a literal translation like 本当にあなたのもの (ほんとうにあなたのもの) would be confusing and unnatural. Always choose a closing appropriate to the letter's formality and your relationship with the recipient.
Japanese letters often use paired opening and closing phrases. For example, 拝啓 (はいけい) pairs with 敬具 (けいぐ), and 前略 (ぜんりゃく) pairs with 草々 (そうそう). Using the wrong pair can seem odd.
じゃあ、またね。草々
Well, see you later. Best,