Final answer:
The closing phrase in a letter, known as the complimentary close, is a formal way to demonstrate respect and appreciation towards the reader, with 'Sincerely' being the most common formal closing, and 'Thank you' being used in less formal situations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The closing phrase used in a letter to show respect and appreciation for the person reading the letter is known as the complimentary close. This phrase is often brief and formal, with “Sincerely” being the standard choice for formal correspondence. For slightly informal situations, “Thank you” may be used. It is customary to only capitalize the first word of the closing, followed by a comma, and then leave two lines blank before typing one's name, allowing space for a handwritten signature between the closing and the typed name.
The closing of a letter or email not only conveys respect but also reinforces the purpose or expectation from the correspondence. In a cover letter, for instance, the closing paragraph could express expectations of follow-up communication. A business letter should conclude by thanking the reader for their time. It's essential to leave a positive and courteous impression with the right closing