What is sincerely? Pronunciation and usage in English

sincerely means . Learn how to pronounce and use sincerely through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of sincerely

sincerelyadverb

/s(ɪ)nˈsɪəli/
Definition & pronunciation of sincerely

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "sincerely." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The General Pronunciation:

  • si-NER-ee-uh

Let's break that down further:

  • si: Pronounced like the "si" in "sit."
  • NER: This is the trickiest part. It's pronounced like "near" without the "r" sound at the end. It's a clear "nair" sound. Think of it like "neer" as that's closer to the old pronunciation.
  • ee: Pronounced like the "ee" in "see."
  • uh: This is a short, unstressed "uh" sound – like the "a" in "about" or the "u" in "but."

Tips & Nuances:

  • The Emphasis: The main stress in the word is on the second syllable: NER. So, "si-NER-ee-uh" is key.
  • Don’t add a “rhotic R”: This is a big mistake. Many learners try to pronounce the “r” in “ner,” but it doesn’t belong there. It's a silent "r."
  • Short "ee" sound: Make sure the "ee" is a clear, short "ee," not a long "i" sound.
  • The final "uh": Don’t let the final "uh" sound be too strong or drawn out. It's a very subtle sound.

Resources for Hearing It:

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Usage and examples with the word sincerely in English

Let's break down how to use "sincerely" in English, focusing on context and when it's appropriate.

1. Basic Meaning & Usage:

"Sincerely" is a word used at the end of a letter, email, or other written communication to express genuine feelings of warmth, honesty, and goodwill. It’s a polite and formal way to convey that you’re being completely honest and heartfelt.

2. Where You'll Find It:

  • Formal Letters: This is the most classic use. You'll see it frequently in business letters, thank-you notes, condolence letters, and letters of apology.
  • Emails (Formal): While less common in casual emails, it's perfectly acceptable in more professional or serious emails – especially when expressing gratitude, sympathy, or formal requests.
  • Cards: Used on greeting cards, especially for more heartfelt messages.

3. How to Use It Correctly:

  • Placement: Always put "Sincerely" at the very end of the letter or email, on a separate line. It's typically followed by a comma.

    Example:

    "Dear Mr. Smith,

    Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this matter further.

    Sincerely,

    [Your Name]"

  • Tone: The tone should match the situation and the overall message. “Sincerely” works best when you’re expressing genuine emotions.

4. When Not to Use It (and Alternatives):

  • Casual Communications: Don't use "Sincerely" in texts, informal emails, or chats with friends. It's too formal for those contexts.
  • When it Feels Forced: If you’re not truly feeling sincere, don’t use the word. It’s better to be genuine than to use a polite phrase that feels disingenuous.

Here are some alternatives, depending on the context:

  • Formal (Similar to Sincerely):
    • Respectfully,
    • Best regards,
    • With appreciation,
  • Informal (Friendly):
    • Best,
    • Warmly,
    • Take care,

5. Example Scenarios:

  • Thank You Note (Business): “Dear Ms. Jones, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your assistance with the project. Sincerely, [Your Name]”
  • Condolence Letter: “Dear John and Mary, We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept our sincere condolences. Sincerely, [Your Name(s)]”
  • Formal Request: “Dear Professor Davis, I am writing to respectfully request an extension on the deadline. Sincerely, [Your Name]”

Resources for Further Learning:

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  • Give you more examples?
  • Help you write a letter using "Sincerely"?
  • Explain how it differs from similar phrases?

Synonyms for the word sincerely

Idioms of the word sincerely

Yours sincerely
(formal)used at the end of a formal letter before you sign your name, when you have addressed somebody by their name

    Practice with vocabulary sincerely

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. I ______ apologize for the delay in processing your application.
    2. The board members discussed the proposal ______ before making their final decision.
    3. She looked forward to the new role with great enthusiasm and ______ commitment.
    4. "I ______ hope this issue can be resolved amicably," the mediator stated.

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. When I stated my willingness to lead the new initiative, I meant it ______. a) truly b) honestly c) sincerely d) strictly

    2. Which of the following are appropriate closing remarks for a formal business letter? a) Regards b) Best c) Sincerely d) Yours truly

    3. I ______ apologize for the oversight in the previous communication. a) deeply b) utterly c) sincerely d) really

    4. The professor encouraged students to ask questions ______ throughout the lecture. a) freely b) openly c) spontaneously d) frankly

    5. Her commitment to environmental conservation was ______; she volunteered every weekend. a) unwavering b) steadfast c) truthful d) genuine

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. Original: "I want to express my honest apology for any misunderstanding." Rewrite using "sincerely" or a related word form:

    2. Original: "His commitment to the ethical principles of the company was beyond doubt." Rewrite using "sincerely" or a related word form:

    3. Original: "The manager delivered his feedback in a very direct and open manner." Rewrite (do not use "sincerely"):

    Answer:

    Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

    1. sincerely
    2. thoroughly
    3. unwavering
    4. sincerely

    Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

    1. a) truly, b) honestly, c) sincerely
    2. c) Sincerely, d) Yours truly
    3. a) deeply, c) sincerely
    4. a) freely, b) openly, c) spontaneously, d) frankly
    5. a) unwavering, b) steadfast, d) genuine

    Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

    1. I sincerely apologize for any misunderstanding.
    2. He was sincerely committed to the ethical principles of the company.
    3. The manager delivered his feedback frankly.

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