Doubtful Quote by Lewis Carroll
“If doubtful whether to end with "yours faithfully," or "yours truly," or "yours most truly," &c. (there are at least a dozen varieties, before you reach "yours affectionately"), refer to your correspondent's last letter, and make your winding-up at least as friendly as his: in fact, even if a shade more friendly, it will do no harm!”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Personal correspondence advice, 19th century
Choose a closing that matches or slightly exceeds the friendliness of the recipient’s sign‑off to maintain tone harmony.
In simple terms: Match or be a bit friendlier than the other’s sign‑off.
Key Takeaway
Mirror their friendliness.
Themes
etquette
communication
tone
Mood
consider
considerate
Type
advice
practical
When to use this quote
- Business letters
- friend letters
- formal emails
- networking messages
Key Concepts
Politeness
social mirroring
Questions to Reflect On
- Is your closing too formal or too casual?
- How does mirroring affect the reader’s perception?
A Different Perspective
If over‑friendliness can appear insincere in very formal contexts.
