how to end a letter chinese

• Mandarin Chinese

How to start, write and end a letter in Chinese [formal + informal]

Marco Monroy

Looking to nail your business correspondence in Chinese? Then check out this guide to writing expert letters and emails in Chinese!

Writing any formal correspondence can be daunting, especially when doing it in a foreign language. However, writing a formal email or letter in Chinese doesn’t have to be super complicated — it’s not much different from writing a letter in English ! As you’ll see in this article, Chinese emails and letters use much of the same formatting and structure as English and other languages.

That said, you should be aware of some unique features of letters and emails in Chinese. In the following article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to expertly write letters and emails in Chinese, whether you’re writing to your business colleagues, family, or teachers. You could even use these strategies to write a romantic love letter in Chinese!

We’ll walk you through every step of the way, from writing the initial greeting all the way through your sign-off and signature. No matter how long you’ve been learning Chinese , you’ll be able to write a letter or email by the end of this article!

Let’s jump right in!

The importance of learning how to write a letter or email in Chinese

Most conversations in China take place on WeChat, which is the most popular instant messaging app in China. This includes professional and business conversations, so you may find yourself messaging your professors or business partners on WeChat. This is viewed as the most convenient form of communication and is used by virtually everyone in China.

With that said, you will still want to learn how to write a letter or email in Chinese if you hope to foster healthy business or professional relationships. Some topics are better addressed via email, especially at the beginning of a new relationship, where texting or calling may be less appropriate. Thus, to set yourself up for success in China, you must make the right impression by sending the perfect introductory email in Chinese.

Here are some of the essential phrases you’ll need to navigate an email in Chinese:

How to format a letter or email in Chinese

Chinese letters and emails follow similar formats to English letters and emails. You’ll generally want your letter to follow a standard format with a salutation, an initial greeting, a body, and a sign-off. We’ll cover all sections individually in the following sections.

Letter format in Chinese

Letters in Chinese follow a very similar format to English letters. The most significant difference is that the date comes at the end instead of at the top. Let’s review an example of a letter in Chinese.

Example of a letter in Chinese

中国江苏省南京市鼓楼区金银街16号 邮编：210093 王立华（收） 电话： 130-2121-3340

我代表贝立兹大学奖学金委员会给您写信。很高兴通知您，您已获得杰出学生奖学金。希望这笔奖学金能帮助您取得更大的成功。有关奖学金的更多详细信息，请您登录本大学的学术网站查看。再次恭喜您！

如果您需要了解任何其他信息，请随时联系我。

刘老师 贝立兹大学奖学金委员会

2023年10月20日

Writing an address in Chinese

A Chinese address will have many elements you’re used to, but they’ll be organized differently. Generally, Chinese goes from big to small, such as when writing dates (2023-10-25) and names (Surname-Given name). Addresses are no exception, so they always start with the largest unit and move progressively to the smallest.

This is almost the diametrical opposite of American addresses, where we start with the house number followed by the street name, then city, state, and zipcode. In China, however, you go the other way:

Country → Province → City → District → Street → Street number → Floor → Apartment number →

So, when formatting a Chinese address, it should look something like this:

中国江苏省南京市鼓楼区金银街16号 邮编：210093 收件人：(recipient’s name in Chinese) 电话： (recipient’s Chinese mobile phone number)

By the way, here’s some helpful address vocabulary in Chinese:

Email format in Chinese

Similar to letters in Chinese, emails in Chinese follow a very similar format to English letters, except that the date goes all the way at the end. Let’s take a look at an example:

Example of an email in Chinese

主题： 2023年贝立玆大学秋季选课通知

2023年贝立兹大学秋季学期选课时间为北京时间9月15日（周五）上午8:00-下午3:00，请各位同学准时登录大学教务系统选课。

请大家在选课之前务必填写好登记表。

如果有任何问题，请随时联系我们。

刘老师 贝立兹大学教学办公室 地址：江苏省南京市鼓楼区金银街16号 电话：130-2445-4321 邮箱：[email protected]

How to start an email or letter in Chinese

Starting your Chinese email or letter correctly is one of the most important things you can do. This will help you start with a bang and set the right expectations for your communication, whether you’re addressing someone for the first time or communicating with a longtime colleague. Let’s take a look at the most important things to consider.

How to write the subject line in an email

Writing your email’s subject line is no joke. Not only can it be the difference between someone’s anti-spam system filtering out your email or not, but it will also be the recipient’s first impression of your email. A well-written email subject line can be the best way to start an award-worthy email.

Addressing and greetings in emails/letters

After writing your subject line, you will want to open your email by addressing the recipient. If you’re writing a letter in Chinese, then this will be the very first thing you write. Finding the appropriate address for the recipient is extremely important, as this will ensure that you’re not disrespectful by being too casual with people you should be more respectful to.

In that spirit, we’ve compiled 15 greetings you can use in your emails and letters to address anyone, from your colleagues all the way to heads of state!

How to build the body for a letter or email in Chinese

Once you’ve created an expert subject line and found the perfect address for your recipient, it’s time to start with your email or letter. Although the way you start the body will vary drastically depending on the type of letter you’re writing, there are a few common starting points that will help you get started.

Sometimes, you must kindly request something from your recipient, or you may have a question to ask them. You may also write to communicate something that happened or that your recipient should know. Here are 19 ways to begin the body of your email or letter and a notes column to give you more context on when each phrase might be appropriate.

How to end an email or letter in Chinese

Finally, you’ll want a solid way to close your email or letter in Chinese. After you’ve made your requests or communicated everything you needed to share in your email, it’s customary to include a line expressing your gratitude for their time, offering any assistance if required, or simply wishing them a great rest of the week. Here are some great examples, along with individual notes, so you know how and when to use them.

How to format your signature

Signatures in Chinese are generally much simpler than signatures in the United States. All you have to include is your essential contact information, such as your name, job title, phone number, address, etc. No need to worry about formatting or adding a headshot — providing your info clearly and concisely should be the main priority. Here are a few things you can include in your signature:

Start making big moves with letters and emails in Chinese

Whether you’re looking to express your true romantic love with the perfect letter or take over the marketing industry with enticing emails, this guide has everything you need. With enough practice and the right guidance, you’ll find that learning how to write Chinese isn’t hard , even if you’re dealing with professional documents like letters and emails.

If you enjoyed this guide, then you’ll surely find some other helpful Mandarin Chinese articles in our blog. We regularly publish helpful guides to help you navigate life in Chinese, like our ultimate guide to asking and giving directions in Chinese .

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How to Write a Formal Letter in Chinese – Formats, Greetings, Closings, and Examples

Learning how to write a formal letter in Chinese is an important skill for anyone doing business or communicating officially in China. While informal messaging and social media have become the norm for daily communication, more formal letters are still used in many professional situations.

Knowing the proper format, style, and customs for Chinese letters sets you apart as someone who understands proper etiquette and shows respect. It also makes your communications more clear and effective.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to write a polished, professional letter in Chinese.

Table of Contents

Why Writing Letters in Chinese is Different

Correspondence in Chinese follows formats, structures, and rules that are specific to the language and culture. While letters in Western languages place the sender’s information at the top, Chinese letters place it at the bottom. Date formats, salutations, and vocabulary are also different.

Understanding these conventions is key for writing appropriate Chinese letters for:

• Business correspondence
• Official or government communications
• Formal invitations or announcements
• Thank you letters
• Letters of introduction
• And more…

By learning proper Chinese letter writing etiquette, you’ll gain respect and build stronger relationships.

Components of a Formal Chinese Letter

While less strict than in the past, formal Chinese letters still follow certain conventions. Here are the key components:

• Sender’s address  – Placed at the bottom left, written in Chinese. Includes name, company, address.
• Date  – At the top right, written in Chinese year/month/day format.
• Inside address  – Name and address of the recipient, on the left side below the date.
• Salutation  – Formal greeting, aligned left, below inside address.
• Body  – Main message paragraphs, aligned left and split into clear sections.
• Closing  – Expression of politeness, aligned right.
• Signature  – Your name and title, aligned right, below closing.
• Postscript  – Optional notes after signature, aligned left.
• Copy notation  – If sending copies, indicated at the bottom left.

Let’s look at each of these letter elements in more detail.

Sender’s Address in a Chinese Letter

In English letters, the return address is placed at the top right. But in Chinese letters, it appears at the bottom left .

This section includes:

• Your full name
• Company or organization
• Full address

Written in Chinese characters from large elements to small. For example:

北京市海淀区中关村大街1号

For personal letters, omit the company name. The order is:

• Detailed address
• Postal code

This identifies the sender and where to send replies.

Date in a Chinese Letter

The date is written at the top right of the page. Use the Chinese format of year/month/day from large to small units.

For example:

Write out the month and do not abbreviate the year. This makes it more formal.

Inside Address in a Chinese Letter

The inside address shows the name and address of the recipient. It is placed on the left side below the date.

The order is:

• Company/organization

This should be accurate and complete, formatted with Chinese characters from large to small units.

Or for personal recipients:

Having the full inside address shows respect and care.

Salutations in Chinese Letters

The salutation comes after the inside address and opens the letter.

Salutations should be:

• Placed on the left side
• Followed by a comma
• Formal but not overly complex

Common Chinese salutations include:

• 尊敬的王先生: (Dear Mr. Wang)
• 亲爱的王小明: (Dear Xiaoming Wang)
• 尊敬的王总经理: (Dear General Manager Wang)
• 各位来宾: (Esteemed Guests)
• 女士们,先生们: (Ladies and Gentlemen)

Match the formality and politeness to your relationship. Simple is better for most professional situations.

Body of a Chinese Letter

The main message of your letter follows the salutation. Here are some tips for writing the body text:

• Paragraphs  – Split text into clear paragraphs of 5-7 sentences.
• Topic sentences  – Begin paragraphs with topic sentences that summarize the key points.
• Transition words  – Use transition words like 首先 (first), 然后 (then), 最後 (finally) to connect ideas.
• Clear sections  – Separate into logical sections using subheadings if needed.
• Formal language  – Use formal vocabulary and avoid slang or casual speech.
• Polite tone  – Maintain an appropriate polite, humble tone.

The body should directly convey your purpose, request, or message. Stick to one purpose per letter.

Closing a Chinese Letter

The closing provides a final note of politeness to end the letter. It is aligned to the right side below the last body paragraph.

Common formal Chinese letter closings:

• 顺颂商祺 (Best regards)
• 礼节用好 (Yours respectfully)
• 祝安好 (Wishing you well)
• 祝商祺 (Wishing you business success)
• 顺颂时祺 (Kindest regards)
• 祝身体健康 (Wishing you good health)

Choose closings that suit your relationship and purpose. Simple is generally better for formal letters.

Signature in a Chinese Letter

Your signature in Chinese letters includes:

It should be aligned to the right, below the closing line, and provides your final endorsement.

Type out your name even if you physically sign the printed letter. This completes the formal letter composition.

Postscript in Chinese Letters

A postscript can optionally be added after your signature for any last notes or addendums.

Postscripts should:

• Be aligned left
• Appear in the bottom left section
• Open with “附註” (P.S.)

Keep postscripts brief and concise. Use them sparingly in formal letters.

Examples of Formal Letters in Chinese

Let’s look at some examples of formal Chinese letters for common business situations:

Thank You Letter

感谢您参加本公司举办的新年晚宴。我非常高兴能有机会同您交谈并更深入地了解贵公司的业务。

晚宴气氛热烈,来宾踊跃,充分体现了双方友好合作的关系。祝愿新的一年我们的合作能取得更大的成果,实现互利双赢。

再次感谢您的参与。期待有机会再次邀请您出席本公司的活动。祝商祺!

Invitation Letter

我公司将于2月28日在北京会展中心举办新产品发布会,现诚挚地邀请您参加。

本次发布会将正式发布我公司经过三年研发的全新5G通信系统。我们衷心希望贵公司领导能亲临发布会,并针对新产品提出宝贵意见。

日期: 2月28日 时间: 上午9点至11点 地点: 北京会展中心101会议室

请遵循发布会的常规要求,准时到达会场。我们热烈期待您的参与。祝顺心与喜乐!

Job Application Cover Letter

北京通信公司 北京市海淀区中关村大街1号

尊敬的人力资源部经理:

我看到贵公司正在招聘市场部主管,非常希望能够获得这一职位机会。现附上我的简历,谨供贵部审阅。

我有五年市场和销售管理经验,曾在多家公司担任市场部职务。期间,成功开拓多个大客户,并领导团队完成多项市场推广项目。我工作勤奋,具有很强的责任心和团队合作精神。

贵公司多年来致力于5G技术革新,在行业内具有领先地位。我希望能为贵公司市场部的发展贡献自己的才华与经验。若获得此次面试机会,我将全力以赴展示自己的能力。

期待您的回复。祝生意兴隆!

Key Takeaways for Writing Formal Chinese Letters

To summarize the key points:

• Use standard formats – sender’s address, date, inside address, salutation, body, closing, signature.
• Formal polite language shows respect.
• Be clear, concise, and well organized.
• Match tone and style to the relationship and purpose.
• Follow Chinese conventions like date format, address placement, and vocabulary.

With practice writing Chinese letters for different situations, you’ll master professional correspondence and stand out for your etiquette.

I hope this comprehensive guide supports you in improving your Chinese formal writing abilities. Please let me know if you have any other questions!

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How to Write a Formal Email in Chinese

• 房产项目合作机会 (fáng chǎn xiàng mù hé zuò jī huì) - Opportunity to Cooperate on Real Estate Projects
• 居外公司简介 (jū wài gōng sī jiǎn jiè) - Company Bio of Juwai
• 孔子学院奖学金的申请资料 (kǒng zǐ xué yuàn jiǎng xué jīn de shēn qǐng zī liào) - Application Materials for the Confucius Institute Scholarship
• 申请财务经理招聘广告 (shēn qǐng cái wù jīng lǐ zhāo pìn guǎng gào) - Application for Financial Manager Job Posting
• 期末考试日期 (qī mò kǎo shì rì qī) - Date of the Final Exam
• 语言交换伙伴 (yǔ yán jiāo huàn huǒ bàn) - Language Exchange Partner

Option 3: Generic, Formal

Option 4: Generic, Formal

Option 5: Other Specific Titles, Formal/Informal

We’re not done just yet!

So, we can say things like:

Example 1 - Thank You Letter for Business

谢谢贵公司送的月饼，我们今天收到了！我们很期待下个月的会议，到时候我们请客！

Example 2 - Outreach Letter for Business

Example 3 - Email for Business

Example 5 - Email for Teacher

At the end of the month, I’ll be going abroad, so I’d like to make sure there’s no issue with the time.

Other Useful Sentences for the Body

Here are some go-to sentences you can use in your emails:

Other Options for Emails

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How to Write A Letter in Chinese

The Chinese language is not only rich in history and culture, but it also offers a unique set of characters and expressions that can add depth and beauty to your correspondence.

Writing a letter in Chinese can be a delightful and meaningful way to communicate with friends, family, or business associates. The Chinese language is not only rich in history and culture, but it also offers a unique set of characters and expressions that can add depth and beauty to your correspondence. Whether you're sending a heartfelt message or a formal business letter, here's a guide on how to write a letter in Chinese.

• Selecting the Right Format: Begin by choosing the appropriate format for your letter. In Chinese, there are two main types: 书信 (shū xìn) for personal letters and 商务信函 (shāng wù xìn hán) for business correspondence. The format for personal letters is less rigid, allowing for more creativity and personalization.
• Salutation (称呼 chēnghu): Start your letter with a polite greeting. In personal letters, you can use "亲爱的" (qīn' ài de) to address someone dear to you, or "尊敬的" (zūn jìng de) for a more formal tone. In business letters, use "尊敬的" (zūn jìng de) or "xxx 您好" (the title of the person +nín hǎo) for formal addresses.
• Introduction (引言 yǐn yán): In the opening paragraph, express your purpose for writing. You can use phrases like "我写信是想…" (wǒ xiě xìn shì xiǎng...) to explain your intentions clearly.
• Main Body (正文 zhèng wén): This is where you convey your message. Use polite and appropriate language based on the recipient and the context. Add details, anecdotes, or information as needed. When implying the company, use "貴公司"  (guì gōng sī ), which is a way to say "your company" in a polite way.
• Closing Remarks (结语 jié yǔ): Express your well-wishes or gratitude. Phrases like "期待您的回信" (qídài nín de huíxìn) convey your anticipation of a response. "祝顺心" (zhù shùn xīn) wishing the recipent all the best. 

In conclusion, writing a letter in Chinese is a wonderful way to connect with others while embracing the beauty of the Chin e se language and culture. Whether it's a heartfelt personal letter or a formal business communication, following these guidelines will help you craft a thoughtful and respectful message. So, pick up your brush, or keyboard, and start writing those letters in Chinese today!

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How to write a Chinese business letter

The Chinese language is a tricky thing to grasp. In the Chinese business world, we're also very particular about "礼仪" (lǐ yí), also known as "etiquette." That means that formal letters need to have the correct salutations and wording. Not to fear, we're here to help!

To sound polite and respectful, many letters begin with "尊敬的… (zūn jìng de)" which is similar to saying "Dear…" The literal translation of "尊敬的" is "Respectable." If you go to any formal events in China, you may notice that in speeches and presentations the audience is often addressed as "尊敬的" as well.

Following 尊敬的, you may add the addressee's surname and their position. Take "张三" as an example, it would be "张先生" (huá nǚ shì), or "Mr. Zhang.

In order to sound straight to the point, some letters may start with "致" instead, which is the equivalent of "To." It is often used in open letters or a single letter addressing an entire  department. For example, "致: Microsoft 财务部门" would be "To: The Microsoft Finance Department." "致" is also used on mail and physical letters.

Observe below.

致: Microsoft 财务部门

尊敬的员工 (respectable employees),

[Body of letter goes here]

Following 尊敬的, you may add the addressee's surname and their position or honorific. Take "张三" as an example, a formal letter would address him as, "张先生", or "Mr. Zhang".

FORMAL TITLES

先生 (xiān shēng) = "Sir" or "Mr."

女士 (nǚ shì) = "Ma'am" or "Ms."

同事 (tóng shì) = "Co-worker"

总经理 (zǒng jīng lǐ) sometimes shortened to "总" = "President" or "Manager"

经理 (jīng lǐ) = "Manager" (a less superior rank than "总经理")

领导 (lǐng dǎo) = "Leader"

老师 (lǎo shī) = "Teacher"

THE COMPLIMENTARY CLOSE AND SIGNATURE LINE

To end your formal letter or email, you may choose to write "此致敬礼," (cǐ zhì jìng lǐ) which means "I end my words with respect." Those four characters should be written on two separate lines, as shown below:

Finally, to sign off, many people choose to write their name, followed by "敬上" which is similar to saying, "Respectfully yours…". For example, "张三敬上." The date is written below the signature, with the format Year/Month/Day.

The salutation and body of the email is typically indented four spaces, whereas the end and signature is often right-aligned. With the proper alignments, your letter should look something like this:

                                致: Microsoft 财务部:

                                                     尊敬的员工,

                                                     [Body of Letter]

                                                                                                                   此致

                                                                                                                   敬礼

                                                                                                                   张三敬上

                                                                                                                   2014年1月26日

ADDITIONAL NOTES

You may notice that younger generations sometimes like to address their letters as "亲爱的", which is "Dear…" This should never be used in formal emails or letters as it sounds too personal.

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Addressing Letters in Chinese

Snail mail is dead--or is it?

While most Chinese people prefer to use email or messaging apps like WeChat to communicate, there are still plenty of reasons you might want to flex your Chinese language skills by sending a letter. Maybe you have a friend studying abroad or a Chinese penpal (笔友, bǐyǒu). Maybe you need to return something you bought online. Maybe you just can’t say no to a pretty postcard (明信片, míngxìnpiàn), like more than one person here at Cheng & Tsui.

(Image: Assorted postcards from the blogger’s travels in Mainland China and Taiwan. Yes--even the dog is a postcard!)

Using the Chinese postal system can seem like a daunting task--even for advanced students of Chinese. Fortunately, half the difficulty lies in knowing how to address letters in Chinese, and we’re here to walk you through that process.

Sending Mail to Mainland China and Taiwan from the US

Sending mail to Mainland China and Taiwan from the US can seem tricky at first. You may be asking: Should you address the letter in English so that your friendly neighborhood postal worker can read it, or in Chinese for the Chinese-speaking postal worker on the other side of the world?

Fortunately, as long as you write the destination territory in English, you can write the rest of the recipient’s address in English, Chinese, or both. That’s because the United States Postal Service only delivers your letter to depots in Mainland China or Taiwan. In Mainland China, the China Post (中国邮政，Zhōngguó yóuzhèng) takes charge of your letters, and in Taiwan they are handled by Chunghwa Post (中華郵政, Zhōnghuá yóuzhèng). Since these postal services process international mail using computers, letters addressed entirely in English can be delivered, but they do sometimes get lost.

Since your letter will be delivered by a Chinese speaker, your best bet is to write “P.R. China” (or “R.O.C. Taiwan”) in English, followed by the recipient’s address in Chinese, with the recipient’s address in English written below or to the right.

How to Write Addresses in Chinese

Address format.

No matter what you want to send or where you want to send it, you’ll need to know how to write addresses (地址, dìzhǐ ) in Chinese.

Unlike addresses written in English, addresses written in Chinese begin with the largest geographic component (usually the province) and end with the smallest.

It’s important to note that not every Chinese address will contain all the parts mentioned above. For example, Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Chongqing are provincial-level municipalities (直辖市, zhíxiáshì), so you don’t need to list the province for an address located in one of those cities. There are also five provincial-level autonomous regions in China: Guangxi, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Tibet, and Xinjiang. When writing an address located in one of those regions, you should use 自治区 (zìzhìqū) in place of 省 (shěng).

It might seem strange that districts (区 qū) and counties (县 xiàn) are smaller administrative units than cities, but remember that most Chinese cities are really, really big. Districts are located in urban areas, while counties are located in rural areas. Because districts rank slightly higher in the general administrative hierarchy of Mainland China, some counties have petitioned to change their status to districts!

When writing a street number or a building number, use the Arabic numeral followed by 号 (hào, a character used to indicate a number in a series). To indicate an apartment or room number, use the Arabic numeral followed by 室 ( shì ; apartment, room). For example:

• 学院路30号 - Xuéyuàn lù sānshí hào - No. 30 Xueyuan Road
• 9号楼3室 - Jiǔ hào lóu sān shì - Building No. 9, Apartment 3

Here are a couple of examples of addresses written in Chinese:

• 陕西省西安市新城区长乐东路10号蓝天小区28号楼21室 - Shǎnxī shěng Xī'ān shì Xīnchéng qū Chánglè dōng lù 10 hào lántiān xiǎoqū 28 hào lóu 21 shì
• 北京市东城区交道口南大街76号 - Běijīng shì Dōngchéng qū Jiāodàokǒu nán dàjiē 76 hào

Notice that you don’t need to insert commas in between each part of an address written in Chinese. When written in English using the standard US format (that is, smallest-to-largest), those same addresses read:

• Apartment 21, Building No. 28, Blue Sky Residential Community, No. 10 Changle East Road, Xincheng District, Xi’an, Shaanxi
• No. 76 Jiaodaokou South Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing

That second address belongs to Zhang Mama’s Sichuan Restaurant (张妈妈特色川味馆, Zhāng māmā tèsè chuān wèi guǎn), AKA the best Sichuan restaurant in Beijing. Let’s say you wanted to write a letter to the owner, to tell her how much you miss her 红油水饺 (hóng yóu shui jiǎo, chili oil dumplings) ever since you moved away (this is a purely hypothetical scenario, and is not at all a product of the blogger’s own wistful daydreaming of dumplings she has eaten).

(Image: Chili oil dumplings from Zhang Mama’s Sichuan Restaurant. One day this blogger will make you hers  again.)

When addressing a letter in Chinese, you must write the recipient’s full name, and it is polite to use his or her title. You can use their job title or a generic title like 先生 (xiānshēng, Mr.) or 女士 (nǚshì, Ms.). You should indicate the intended recipient of the letter by writing 收 (shōu, to receive) in parentheses after his or her name. If you are sending a letter to someone’s work address, it’s a good idea to write the name of the business or organization, too.

Now, Zhang Mama obviously isn’t the full legal name of the owner of Zhang Mama’s Sichuan Restaurant. Since that information isn’t available, you can substitute 某某 (mǒu mǒu, so-and-so) for this example, but if you were to actually send this letter, you would need Zhang Mama’s real name. Stick in the postal code for Dongcheng District (100007), and you have all the information you need to address your letter to Zhang Mama:

• 北京市东城区交道口南大街76号

Placement of the Address on the Envelope

Writing the recipient and sender’s addresses in the correct spots on the envelope is crucial. Otherwise, your letter won’t get where it needs to go.

In mainland China, mail is sent using horizontal envelopes. The proper placement of the recipient and sender’s addresses on an envelope is shown below.

First and foremost, the recipient’s postal code (邮编， yóubiān ) goes in the top left corner of the envelope. Mainland China uses six digit codes.

The recipient’s address goes in the top left of the envelope beneath the postal code. If the address is long, it’s sometimes split into two lines. The name of the recipient’s company or organization can also go on the second line. The recipient’s name goes in the center of the envelope, beneath his or her address.

The sender’s address and name go in the bottom right corner of the envelope. These are usually written on one line, unless the sender’s address is really long. The person who writes the letter can indicate he or she is the sender by writing 寄 ( jì , to send) in parentheses after his or her name. Finally, the sender’s postal code goes in the bottom right corner.

Let’s try addressing an envelope to Zhang Mama using the information from the previous section. We’ll use the first example address and the name 刘洋 ( Liú Yáng ) as our hypothetical sender, so that Zhang Mama knows where to send her secret recipe for chili oil dumplings in a return letter, if she so chooses. It should look like this:

In Taiwan, there are two types of standard envelopes in use: horizontal and vertical envelopes. The proper placement of the recipient and sender’s addresses on a Taiwanese horizontal envelope is slightly different from mainland China’s, as shown below.

The recipient’s address and name go in the center of the envelope. The three-digit postal code comes first, followed on the next two lines by the rest of the address. The recipient’s name is written beneath his or her address, with (收) written after it.

The sender’s information is written in the exact same format (postal code, address, name) in the top left corner of the envelope, just in smaller characters. Don’t forget to use traditional characters when sending a letter to Taiwan!

On a vertical envelope, the recipient’s name is written vertically in the box in the center of the envelope. The recipient’s postal code goes in the top right corner, and his or her address goes on the right side of the envelope. The sender’s postal code goes in the bottom left corner, and his or her name and address are written vertically on the left side of the envelope. Don’t worry--unless you live in Taiwan and send or receive a lot of letters, you probably won’t see this type of vertical envelope very often.

Happy Writing!

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Mandarin Lesson: Salutations in Chinese Letters (Intermediate)

Shūxìn shì shāngwù jiāoliú hěn zhòngyào de yíbùfen, 书信     是   商务       交流   很    重要        的 一部分， ér chēnghū shì shūxìn de dìyī bùfen. Qiàdàng de 而 称呼       是   书信   的  第一 部分。恰当     的 chēnghū huì gěi dúxìn de rén liúxia shēnkè de yìnxiang. 称呼        会  给   读信  的 人  留下   深刻    的   印象。 Salutations are among the most important elements of business communication. In a formal letter, the salutation occurs first. An appropriate salutation can create a good impression for the letter’s reader.

Zài zhōngwén shūxìn zhōng, 在  中文           书信      中， chēnghū shì duì shōuxìn rén de zūnchēng. 称呼         是  对   收信     人   的  尊称。 Rúhé chēnghū zhǔyào yījù xiānghù jiān de guānxì érdìng . 如何   称呼       主要   依据  相互     间  的  关系     而定。 In Chinese letters, salutations are usually the honorific titles of the reader. The relationship between the addresser and the addressee primarily determines what kind of honorific is used.

Zhōngwén shūxìn zhōng de chēnghū yìbān dōu yǐ “jìngyǔ + chēngwèi” 中文            书信     中     的   称呼      一般   都  以 “敬语 ＋ 称谓” de xíngshì chūxiàn. Zhōngwén shūxìn zhōng de 的 形式      出现。   中文           书信      中   的 chēnghū dōushì dǐnggé xiě, hòu jiā màohào. 称呼        都是      顶格   写，后 加   冒号。 Salutations in Chinese are usually written using the following form: “honorific + title.” Furthermore, they are written on the left hand side of the page, beginning in the first space and then followed by a colon.

Duì bùtóng guānxi de rén yào shǐyòng bùtóng de jìngyǔ. 对   不同      关系    的 人   要    使用     不同     的   敬语。 Chinese use a variety of honorifics to reflect the different relationships in people’s lives.

Case and Examples:

Case 1. Duì shàngjí 对  上级 Salutations Used When Greeting a Superior

“Jìng’ài de + xìngmíng:” “敬爱   的+    姓名：” “Respected + name:”

       Jìng’ài de Wáng Lì: e.g. 敬爱     的 王  力： Respected Wang Li:

Case 2. Duì tóngjí 对   同级 Salutations Used When Greeting a Colleague

“Qīn’ài de + xìngmíng:” “亲爱   的+  姓名：” “Dear + name:”

Qīn’ài de Liú Yīng: e.g.  亲爱   的 刘 英： Dear Liu Ying:

Case 3. Biǎoshì zhèngzhòng 表示       郑重 Showing Respect When Writing Names in Salutations

1) “Zūnjìng de + xìng + zhíwèi:” 1)  “尊敬   的+  姓    + 职位：” “Honorable + surname + occupation title:”

Zūnjìng de Wáng jīnglǐ: e.g.尊敬     的  王      经理： Honorable Manager Wang:

      Zūnjìng de Wáng lǎoshī : e.g. 尊敬     的  王      老师： Honorable Teacher Wang:

2) “Zūnjìng de + xìng + xiānsheng/nǚshì:” 2)  “尊敬  的+  姓      +先生/女士：” “Honorable + surname + Sir/ Madam:”

      Zūnjìng de Lǐ nǚshì: e.g. 尊敬    的 李 女士： Honorable Madam Li:

Case 4. Biǎoshì fēicháng zhèngzhòng 表示       非常        郑重 Showing Very High Respect When Writing Names in Salutations

1) “Zūnjìng de + zhíwèi + xìng + xiānsheng/nǚshì + jìngqǐ:” 1)“尊敬的    +  职位      +姓      +先生/女士            +敬启：” Honorable + occupation title + surname + Sir/Madam + please open:

     Zūnjìng de zhǔguǎn Zhōu xiānsheng jìngqǐ: e.g. 尊敬     的 主管        周        先生       敬启： Honorable Supervisor Mr. Zhou, please open:

2)  “Zūnjìng de + zhíwèi + xìng + xiānsheng/nǚshì + zūnjiàn:” 2)“尊敬   的  +  职位      +姓     +先生/女士             +尊鉴：” Honorable + occupation title + surname + Sir/Madam + respectfully discerned:

  Zūnjìng de kēzhǎng Mǎ xiānsheng zūnjiàn: e.g. 尊敬  的  科长       马  先生           尊鉴： Honorable Section Chief Mr. Ma, respectfully discerned:

3) “Zūnjìng de + zhíwèi + xìng + xiānsheng/nǚshì +yǎjiàn:” 3)“尊敬    的+职位      +姓     +先生/女士             +雅鉴：” Honorable + occupation title + surname + Sir/Madam + elegantly discerned:

    Zūnjìng de jīnglǐ Wáng nǚshìyǎjiàn: e.g. 尊敬   的 经理 王    女士    雅鉴： Honorable Manager Miss Wang, elegantly discerned:

生词 ( shēngcí ) Vocabulary

被誉为 ( bèi yùwéi ) to be well-known as

敬启 ( jìngqǐ ) please open

尊鉴 ( zūnjiàn ) respectfully discerned

雅鉴 ( yǎjiàn ) elegantly discerned

More Mandarin Lessons on Business Topics: Mandarin Lesson: “Hang up a Phone Call” Helps You Learn Business Etiquette Online Mandarin Lesson Helps You Learn Business Etiquette: Make a Phone Call Learn Business Greetings Through an Online Mandarin Lesson Learn Taboos of Giving Business Gifts in China Through a Business Mandarin Lesson. Chinese Culture General Chinese (Beginner Level) General Chinese (Intermediate Level)

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In this Mandarin lesson, “上级 (shànɡjí)” is the Chinese word for “superior.” But what are the Chinese characters for “subordinate?

“下级 (xiàjí)” means “subordinate.”

Yes, these two words from this Mandarin lesson are easy to remember. “上 (shànɡ)” means “up,” “下 (xià)” means “down” and “级 (jí)” means “rank” here. A person with a high rank is called “上级 (shànɡjí) superior,” while people with lower ranks are called “下级 (xiàjí) subordinates.”

There is the phrase “亲爱 (qīnài) dear” in this Mandarin lesson, but I know a similar phrase: “可爱 (kěài) .” What does it mean?

“可爱 (kěài)” means “lovely.”

Thank you for your help!Thank you and My best regards! Thank you and Sorry for so many qotseiuns but i really need your help.

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• For Teachers

Chinese Business: How to Write a Formal Email in Chinese

It’s something we’re not always exposed to when we start to learn the language, but it’s important to consider how to write a formal email in Chinese – particularly in a business context. We know the importance of business etiquette in China, so it’s vital to know how to use the correct salutations and wording.

Unless you are emailing someone you’re very familiar with (e.g. a friend, family or close co-worker), it’s always best to lead with the formal. As a general rule, letters and emails in Chinese as a whole tend to be more formal. There is definitely room to move to a less formal approach later down the chain, if that’s how the recipient leads it, however it’s never harmful to start off formal.

Before we get started, make sure you have a Hanzi keyboard installed on your machine.

Now, let’s take a look at some tips for writing a formal email in Chinese…

Keep it simple, formal and clear. Get straight to the point.

Title and Greeting

It’s important to greet everybody who you are emailing and use business labels where appropriate, such as ‘President’ or ‘Manager’. Some formal titles:

• 先生 – xiān shēng – Sir/Mr
• 女士 – nǚ shì – Ms/Mrs
• 经理 – jīng lǐ – Manager
• 领导 – lǐng dǎo – Leader
• 总经理 – zǒng jīng lǐ – President/Manager (higher position than 经理)
• 同事 – tóng shì – Co-worker
• 同志 – tóng zhì – Comrade (less formal)

For a more general approach, you could go for ‘To Whom it May Concern’:

致相关人士 – zhì xiāng guān rén shì

Closing + Sign Off

It’s best to end Chinese emails with a ‘Best Regards’, written with the following characters and spacing:

            此致 ( Cǐzhì)

敬礼！(j ìnglǐ!)

We know how important business card etiquette is in China , so it’s important to include your title, company name and contact details in your email signature. Contact details should include your company address, personal business phone number and business email address.

Note: don’t forget to use Chinese punctuation in your email, rather than the Western versions on your keyboard!

Why not read some more of our Chinese Business blogs ? If there’s any more business content that you’d like to see, please reach out to us on our socials and we’ll be glad to accommodate!

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Beginner’s Tutorial: How to Write a Letter in Chinese Style

Do you ever need to write in the Chinese letter format but are unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Crafting an email is frequently required for business, educational, or personal purposes, so having this skill is invaluable. In this article, you will find instructions detailing how to master the art of writing a Chinese letter. Rest easy as we guide you through every significant detail.

The Basics of Chinese Letter Writing

To grasp Chinese writing, one must move beyond mere word translation. It means honoring its cultural backdrop and acknowledging elements that set this type of communication apart.

Respect and formality are important in Chinese correspondence. It can be written for personal or business reasons, but a formal tone is required in most situations. It has a distinct identity from many forms of Western communication, which are not always formal.

Usually, letters commence with a warm greeting, as it’s a cultural norm to establish a friendly relationship with the reader initially. The letter goes ahead to address the key issues in a simple manner.

One should remember to be explicit, detailed, and objective while writing. Keeping concepts and ideas concrete helps ensure your message is received as intended. Careful wording is essential since ambiguity or misunderstandings can easily occur due to linguistic complexities inherent in Chinese.

Chinese Email Format: A Detailed Guide

One crucial aspect to consider in any foreign correspondence is the format. Much like any other, the Chinese format has specific elements that need to be handled delicately. This clear and helpful breakdown will give you an understanding of how to write a Chinese letter.

The Subject Line

Writing the subject line of your email is an important step. It prepares the reader by defining the theme and what is to come. The objective is to be brief yet informative and make the email’s content clear from the title.

When devising a subject line, consider the main purpose of your email. Is it to inquire, announce, request, or propose? The clarity can impact the recipient’s engagement.

• 会议时间确认 (huì yì shí jiān què rèn) – Confirmation of Meeting Time.  This subject line is used when you need to confirm or reconfirm the scheduled time for a meeting. It’s straightforward and shows the email contains important logistical information.
• 新产品发售通知 (xīn chǎn pǐn fā shòu tōng zhī) – New Product Launch Notification.  Ideal for emails that announce the release of new products, it grabs attention by highlighting something new and exciting.
• 项目进展更新 (xiàng mù jìn zhǎn gēng xīn) – Project Progress Update.   When updating stakeholders or team members on the status of a project, this subject line conveys the purpose of the email.

A clear, concise, and specific subject line is always more effective than a vague or overly complicated one. It guarantees that the recipient understands your purpose before even opening the email.

Writing the Greeting

In Chinese email communication, the greeting sets the tone for the entire message. It’s where respect and formality are first established, crucial in a culture that values hierarchy and politeness. Crafting an appropriate greeting involves selecting the right phrases and titles to address the recipient respectfully.

For formal emails, especially in a business context, it’s essential to use the recipient’s title and last name. If you’re unsure about the specific title, ‘ 尊敬的’ (Zūnjìng de) (Respected) is a safe and respectful option.

• 尊敬的王先生 (Zūnjìng de Wáng xiānshēng) – Respected Mr. Wang.
• 尊敬的李教授 (Zūnjìng de Lǐ jiàoshòu) – Respected Professor Li.
• 尊敬的赵博士 (Zūnjìng de Zhào bóshì) – Respected Dr. Zhao.

When writing to a friend or a known colleague with whom you have an informal relationship, it’s acceptable to use a more casual greeting. However, it’s still common to address them by their last name unless you’re very close.

• 你好，李雷 (Nǐ hǎo, Lǐ Léi) – Hello, Li Lei.
• 小张，你好 (Xiǎo Zhāng, nǐ hǎo) – Hello, Xiao Zhang.

Using ‘ 小’ (Xiǎo) (little)  before the surname is a friendly way to address younger people or peers in an informal yet respectful manner.

Writing the Body

The body of a Chinese email follows the greeting and is where you articulate the main purpose of your message. It should be clear, concise, and structured to communicate your points effectively. Here are guidelines to help you navigate this crucial section of your email:

• Start with a purpose statement.  Begin by clearly stating the purpose of your email. It helps the recipient understand the context and importance of your message right from the start.  我写这封邮件是为了询问... (Wǒ xiě zhè fēng yóujiàn shì wèile xúnwèn...) – I am writing this email to inquire about...
• Detail your points.  After introducing the purpose, detail your points in a logical order. If you have multiple topics to cover, consider using bullet points or numbered lists for clarity.  首先, 我想讨论... (Shǒuxiān, wǒ xiǎng tǎolùn...) – First, I would like to discuss...
• Use polite language. Maintaining a polite tone is crucial. Use respectful phrases, especially when making requests or suggestions.  您能否提供...？(Nín néng fǒu tígōng...?) – Could you please provide...?
• Closing statement. Before your sign-off, include a closing statement summarizing your email or thank the recipient for their time.  感谢您抽时间阅读这封邮件。 (Gǎnxiè nín chōu shíjiān yuèdú zhè fēng yóujiàn.) – Thank you for taking the time to read this email.

Such points aid in constructing a structured and effective email body. Start with a clear intention, detail points logically, be polite, and end with a closing remark. 

Signature of Chinese Emails

Before your name, it’s customary to include a polite closing phrase. It can vary depending on the formality of the email and your relationship with the recipient. Examples include:

• 此致敬礼 (Cǐ zhì jìng lǐ) – With respect.
• 敬上 (Jìng shàng) – Respectfully.

In business emails, include your title and contact information below your name. It can include your phone number, email address, and company name. For more personal emails, this part can be omitted.

李华 (Lǐ Huá)

营销经理 (Yíngxiāo jīnglǐ) – Marketing Manager

XYZ公司 (XYZ Gōngsī) – XYZ Company

电话: 123-456-7890 (Diànhuà: 123-456-7890) – Phone: 123-456-7890

电邮: [email protected] (Diànyóu: [email protected]) – Email: [email protected]

Essential Vocabulary for Writing Chinese Business Letters

Understanding specialized vocabulary is key to writing effective business letters. Here, we share crucial words and phrases that can help improve clarity and eloquence in your correspondence:

• 此致敬礼 [Cǐ zhì jìng lǐ] – This phrase is used as a closing, meaning ‘With respect’ or ‘Yours sincerely,’ to show politeness.

此致敬礼 (Yours sincerely.)

• 合作 [Hézuò] – Cooperation; a key term when proposing or discussing collaborations.

期待与您的合作。 (Looking forward to cooperating with you.)

• 项目 [Xiàngmù] – Project; used when referring to specific tasks or collaborations.

关于新项目的讨论 (Discussion about the new project.)

• 商务 [Shāngwù] – Business; a generic term applicable to various business contexts.

商务会议 (Business meeting.)

• 谢谢 [Xièxiè] – Thank you; expressing gratitude is important in Chinese culture, even in business communications.

谢谢您的快速回复。 (Thank you for your prompt reply.)

• 询问 [Xúnwèn] – To inquire; useful for asking questions or seeking information.

我想询问关于合同的细节。 (I would like to inquire about the details of the contract.)

• 附件 [Fùjiàn] – Attachment; indicates that you have included additional documents with your letter or email.

请查收附件中的报告。 (Please find the report in the attachment.)

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When communicating in Chinese, remember the key elements: a concise subject line, proper greeting, clear message body, and respectful closing. Attentiveness to such aspects will improve communication and enhance your relationships. Also, always keep in mind the high regard for details and respect inherent in the culture. The guidelines will give you a clear understanding of how to write a letter in Chinese.

Can I use translation tools for writing business letters in Chinese?

While translation tools can be helpful, relying solely on them for business communication can lead to inaccuracies or cultural misunderstandings. These tools often struggle with context and the subtleties of formal language. It’s better to use them as a supplementary aid while learning and to have a native speaker review important documents.

How can I practice the Chinese business language effectively?

Practicing Chinese requires real-world application. Try reading business news to familiarize yourself with the formal language used in current affairs. Joining forums or social media groups can also provide opportunities to engage in discussions and learn diverse vocabulary and  Chinese idioms .

How can I ensure my business letters are well-received?

Focus on clarity, formality, and respect. Use appropriate greetings and closings, and clearly state your purpose at the beginning of the letter. Be mindful of hierarchy, using titles and last names to address recipients.

Where can I learn Chinese business language and phrases?

There are several resources for expanding your Chinese.  Chinese-Tools.com provides various resources, including quizzes and dictionaries specifically tailored for business Chinese.  YellowBridge is an educational platform that offers a wide range of tools, including a dictionary with business-related terms.

5 Crazily Simple Tricks to Writing Business Email in Chinese Like a Pro

Recently updated on February 21st, 2024 at 07:42 pm

Email writing has been one of the most commonly use method for communication in our daily activities. Do you need to write business email in Chinese? In English, formal emails, e.g. emails to a professor, often start with “Hi”, “Hello”, “Dear” followed by the receiver’s name (and title, if applicable). The ending is usually “Best”, “Regards”, “Sincerely” followed by the writer’s name. Does Chinese have similar constructs? Believe it or not, writing business email in Chinese is really different from daily conversation. There are so many details that you need to pay attention to in the Chinese copywriting process if you are writing to your boss, your clients, or anyone whose social status is higher than yours.

Table of Contents

• Writing Business Email in Chinese: Essential Phrases

Frequently Asked Questions

Structure of business email in chinese: 5 essential elements.

As a general rule, letters and emails in Chinese as a whole tend to be more formal. The structure of Chinese business email is quite similar to a Western-style email:

Blessing/Signature

Keep it simple, formal and clear. Get straight to the point. Any business culture in the East or West appreciates brevity, clarity and politeness. So if your business email in Chinese is work-related, your subject line should take that into account.

It’s important to greet everybody who you are emailing and use business labels where appropriate, such as ‘President’ or ‘Manager’. Some formal titles:

• 先生 – xiān shēng – Sir/Mr
• 女士 – nǚ shì – Ms/Mrs
• 经理 – jīng lǐ – Manager
• 领导 – lǐng dǎo – Leader
• 总经理 – zǒng jīng lǐ – President/General Manager
• 同志 – tóng zhì – Comrade

It usually starts with “Dear/Respectable 尊敬的 zūn jìng de or 敬爱的 jìng ài de”, followed by the name (normally the surname in Chinese) and then the gender/position.  So if you want to address Professor Wang, you’d open the email with: “尊敬的王教授”, then it’s followed by a formal greeting “Hello 您好 nín hǎo”.

If you don’t know the exact name of the person you’re emailing, the Chinese version of “to whom it may concern 致相关人士 – zhì xiāng guān rén shì” is perfectly acceptable.

The body of your email doesn’t need to be incredibly short, but it should be quick and to the point if you’re writing for business purposes. This is especially the case if you’re asking for something or your email is time-sensitive.

Always thank your readers thoroughly for reading your email. Again, politeness, modesty and humility is key for coming off as someone who cares about saving face. Not every email you send needs to end with an apology and a gratuitous thankful statement, but make it clear you care about them taking the time.

麻烦您了! (má fan nǐ le!) 多谢 ! (duō xiè) (Sorry for the trouble! Thanks a lot,)

如有不便之处，敬请见谅。(rú yǒu bù biàn zhī chù, jìng qǐng jiàn liàng.) (Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience we have caused.)

Business card culture is very important in China, so it’s important to include your title, company name and contact details in your email signature. Contact details should include your company address, personal business phone number and business email address.

To end your formal letter or email, you may choose to write “此致敬礼” (cǐ zhì jìng lǐ) which means “I end my words with respect.” Those four characters should be written on two separate lines, as shown below:

敬礼！(jìnglǐ)

Another way to to sign off is writing their name followed by “敬上” which is similar to saying, “Respectfully yours…”.

Example: “艾米敬上”.

Writing Business Email in Chinese : Essential Phrases

Do People Use Emails a Lot in China?

No, email is not the default way of communication in China, and people don’t use emails as much as using instant messaging app. However, for businesses especially those involved in international trade, they also use emails to communicate.

What Emails Are Popular in China?

126.com, 163.com, QQ Mail and Sina Mail have 90% of the market in China.

How Do You End a Business Email in Chinese?

The most respectful and common way to end a business email in Chinese is to writer 此致敬礼 (cǐ zhì jìng lǐ)  , which means “With best regards”.

How to Say ‘Kind Regards’ in Mandarin?

“此致 敬礼” is often considered as the Chinese equivalent of “Kind Regards” in emails. It’s used in the end of email or letter to show respects and send best wishes to the recipient.

How to Address a Person with Respect in Chinese Email?

The most respectful way to address a person is to use the title 尊敬的 (Pinyin: zūn jìng de, English: respectable), followed by the person’s surname, then by the words, 女士 (nǚ shì) – “Ms.”, and 先生 (xiān sheng) – “Mr.”.

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Chinese Copywriter Team consists of talented linguists, project managers, localization engineers, and SEO experts. Since 2012, we have been providing translation, localization, and marketing services for various international businesses targeting the Chinese markets as well as Chinese businesses expanding their global reach.

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greetings to close a letter

• Thread starter bwuw
• Start date Jul 12, 2012

Senior Member

• Jul 12, 2012

Hi, Does anybody know how to close a letter in Chinese? I've seen something like 保重，is it too informal? Would you use it only to address close friends? Do you know any other expressions that I could use? Thanks in advance! B  

If you want to sound formal, you can use 致礼。 or 此致，敬礼。 保重，can be used among acquaintances.  

• Jul 13, 2012

Actually, I think 保重 is a little bit formal, meaning "please take care of yourself". You can use it to address a friend, your colleague, business partner etc. 此致 敬礼 is one of many formal ways to close a letter in the Mainland China. I'm not sure about Hong Kong, Taiwan etc. I think an universal way which can be use in almost any circumstance is: 祝一切顺利！ (Wish everything goes well.)  

• Jul 18, 2012

此致 敬礼 is very formal. 祝一切顺利 or simply 祝好(like "best regards" or "kind regards") is commonly seen.  

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Closing a letter from two people

When writing a letter to family members, such as on a holiday card, how do you close the letter when it's being written from two people (such as from a husband and wife)? If one of our names is a one-character name, is it appropriate to write the single character in the closing?

Well it depends on who you’re writing to in the family and the actual relationship you have with that person, but simply using names feels rude and inappropriate in letters in most cases. Generally it is less inappropriate if you go more polite and make the recipient feel close with you in writing. And I think the reason is because Chinese like to establish relationships with other people. Even for people not in the same family, we want to call them by 哥、姐、弟、妹 to make us feel more connected/close, not to mention that we have already have connections by family.

For the same generation, I feel it should be okay just use your name when you write to your cousins or siblings, depends on your closeness with that person. If you only use your name, it is better you start with that person’s relationship at the beginning of the letter, for example 表姐、表哥、堂弟、堂妹 etc, then in the end you can probably close with your name. And if you want to start with that person’s name only without indication of the relationship, normally it is writing to someone younger than you, such as 弟弟、表妹 etc.. With some indication of relationship at the beginning you can close the letter with your name. It feels very distant if you don’t use some word to indicate your relationship with that person in writing.

If you write to your spouse it depends on how you call each other. In the old days people use 妻 xx、夫 xx etc but i would imagine people use nicknames more nowadays.

If you write to parents, normally you use 儿xx、子 xx、女xx 、儿媳 xx etc in conjunction of your name without/with surname(generally without). If you write to your parents’ siblings, it’s very inappropriate not to use relationship words like 姨、叔、伯 etc unless you have a very close relationship and you have a special nickname between two of you, which is hard to imagine for me.

For other relatives, you use the relationship in front of your name without/with surname. For example, 侄 xx、侄女 xx、外甥 xx、外甥女 xx etc

If you write to grandparents, you call them by 爷爷、奶奶、外公、外婆 etc with no name mention and you close by 孙子xx、孙女xx etc. The name can be omitted if you're the only grandchild in the family. There’s less room to argue here.

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