BUSINESS ENGLISH: BUSINESS CORRESPONDENCE AND LETTER STYLES

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from the lesson on business correspondence, letter styles, and types of business letters.

Business correspondence

Written communication between parties in a business context; includes internal, inter-organizational, and customer interactions; essential for building and maintaining relationships.

Intra-organization communication

Communication within a single organization.

Inter-organization communication

Communication between two or more organizations.

E-correspondence

Electronic correspondence (via email, online messaging, etc.) used in modern business.

Indented style

A letter style where the first line of each paragraph is indented by about 5–7 spaces from the left margin.

Blocked style

A letter style where all lines are flush with the left margin; no indentation; paragraphs are separated by blank lines.

Semi-block style

A hybrid style combining elements of indented and block styles; body text is left-aligned with no indentation at paragraph starts, and paragraphs are spaced to separate them.

7 parts of a business letter

The seven sections commonly found in a business letter: contact information, subject line, greeting, introduction, detailed information, conclusion, and signature.

Contact information

Your name, phone number, and business address or email used to identify the sender.

Subject line

A brief line in emails that summarizes the message or purpose of the letter.

Greeting

A respectful opener that varies in formality depending on the relationship with the reader.

Introduction

The opening portion that states the purpose and desired outcome of the letter.

Detailed information

The main body containing specific details, questions, or information.

Conclusion

The closing part that signals next steps or actions for the reader.

Signature

The writer’s name and, if applicable, credentials and contact details, placed at the end of the letter.

Cover Letters

A letter sent with a resume to apply for a job; introduces the applicant and explains interest.

Letters of Recommendation

A letter written to endorse someone’s qualifications for a job, program, or opportunity.

Sales Letters

A letter aimed at persuading the reader to buy a product or service.

Letters of Commendation

A letter recognizing notable achievements or performance.

Letters of Resignation

A formal notice resigning from a position, usually including last working date.