Dear sir or madam vs Dear sir or madam;

Both "dear sir or madam" and "dear sir or madam;" are correct, but the first one without a semicolon is more commonly used in formal letters. The semicolon is not necessary in this context.

Last updated: March 15, 2024 • 1131 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in formal letters.

"Dear sir or madam"

This phrase is used as a formal salutation at the beginning of a letter when the gender of the recipient is unknown.

Examples:

Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to inquire about the job opening.
Please address the letter to Dear Sir or Madam.
Dear Sir or Madam, I appreciate your prompt response.

Alternatives:

To whom it may concern
Dear Hiring Manager
Dear Recruiter
Dear Sir/Madam
Dear [Company Name] Team

This phrase is correct but less common in formal letters.

"Dear sir or madam;"

This phrase is also used as a formal salutation at the beginning of a letter when the gender of the recipient is unknown, but the semicolon is not necessary.

Examples:

Dear Sir or Madam;, I am writing to express my concerns.
Please address the letter to Dear Sir or Madam;.
Dear Sir or Madam;, your assistance is greatly appreciated.

Show examples from the web [+]

Aug 28, 2010 ... When is it appropriate to use the terms Dear Sir or Madam and To whom it may concern? The rules I was taught state that Dear Sir or Madam ...
Nov 30, 2009 ... If you have landed on this page because you want to know whether it is acceptable to use "Dear Sir or Madam" as a greeting in a message to a ...
Mar 2, 2006 ... TrentinaNE is correct. "Dear Sir or Madam" is the correct way to address a letter to one unknown person, such as the director of the personnel ...
Apr 18, 1998 ... "Dear Sir or Madam" seems a bit risky since most women are not madams. Is there some all-purpose salutation I have not thought of?

Alternatives:

To whom it may concern;
Dear Hiring Manager;
Dear Recruiter;
Dear Sir/Madam;
Dear [Company Name] Team;

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Dear sir or madam vs Dear sir or madam;

"Dear sir or madam"

"Dear sir or madam;"

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