When it comes to writing emails, the way you end your message matters just as much as the words you use at the start. A closing line can set the tone, leave a lasting impression, and even reflect your personality. One email sign-off that often sparks debate is “Cheers.”
Is it friendly and approachable, or too casual for professional communication? Can you use it with your boss, clients, or colleagues? In this blog, we’ll break down when “Cheers” works, when it doesn’t, and some smart alternatives so you can end your emails the right way every time.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to choose a closing that fits the tone, context, and recipient, making your emails polished, professional, and personable.
Understanding Email Closings: Why They Matter
Email closings are more than just a polite way to end a message. They reflect your personality, tone, and professionalism. Choosing the right closing can leave a lasting impression on the recipient, whether it’s a colleague, client, or friend. A casual closing like “Cheers” might feel friendly and approachable, but is it always appropriate? That’s what we’ll explore.
Key takeaway: Your email closing should match the tone, context, and relationship with the recipient.
The Origin and Meaning of “Cheers”
“Cheers” originally comes from British English and was used as a toast when drinking. Over time, it evolved into a friendly expression of goodwill, similar to saying “thanks” or “best wishes.”
Fun fact: In emails, “Cheers” conveys casual friendliness, rather than formality. It’s often seen in creative industries, tech startups, and informal communications.
Synonyms & Similar Expressions:
| Expression | Tone | Usage Context |
| Best | Neutral | Professional and safe |
| Warm regards | Friendly | Semi-formal emails |
| Thanks | Appreciative | Informal to formal |
| Kind regards | Polite | Formal, standard business |
| Cheers | Casual & friendly | Informal, familiar audiences |
When “Cheers” Works in Emails
“Cheers” is perfect for informal or semi-formal emails where you have a friendly relationship with the recipient. Here’s when it shines:
- Internal team emails: Short, friendly notes to colleagues
- Creative industries: Marketing, design, media
- Follow-ups with known contacts: After a meeting or discussion
- Thank-you notes: Shows appreciation in a casual tone
Example:
Hey Sam,
Thanks for sending over the report! Looking forward to your thoughts on the proposal.
Cheers,
Alex
In this scenario, “Cheers” feels natural, approachable, and professional enough for the context.
When to Avoid Using “Cheers”
While friendly, “Cheers” is not suitable for all professional situations. Avoid it in:
- Formal emails: Cover letters, proposals, or executive communications
- Cold outreach: Emails to new clients or stakeholders
- Cross-cultural emails: Some cultures may find it too casual or informal
Pro tip: If in doubt, choose a neutral closing like “Best regards” or “Kind regards” to maintain professionalism.
Alternatives to “Cheers” for Professional Emails
If you want to keep a friendly tone without being too casual, try these alternatives:
| Closing | Tone | Best Used For |
| Best regards | Professional & friendly | Standard business emails |
| Warm regards | Warm & approachable | Semi-formal emails |
| Thanks | Polite & appreciative | When expressing gratitude |
| All the best | Friendly & personal | Team emails, creative industries |
| Sincerely | Formal & standard | Official communications, legal or HR emails |
Cultural Differences and International Considerations
“Cheers” is common in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, but in the US, it’s seen as informal and sometimes overly casual. In countries like Japan or Germany, it may come across as unprofessional if used in work emails.
Tip: Research the recipient’s cultural context before using casual closings.
Grammar, Tone, and Etiquette Tips for Email Closings
- Tone matching: Match your closing to the body of your email
- Capitalization: Use “Cheers,” with a comma, followed by your name
- Consistency: Keep your email closings consistent across emails for professional branding
- Avoid over-familiarity: If unsure, stick to neutral closings
Quick Grammar Note:
“Cheers” is an interjection, so it works like saying “thanks!” It does not need additional punctuation, but a comma before your name is standard in emails.
Real-Life Examples of “Cheers” in Emails
Example 1 – Team Communication:
Hi Team,
Great work on the campaign! Let’s meet tomorrow to finalize details.
Cheers,
Jordan
Example 2 – Friendly Client Email:
Hey Mia,
Loved the presentation today! Can’t wait to see the final version.
Cheers,
Alex
Example 3 – Startup Email:
Hi Ryan,
Thanks for joining the call. Excited to collaborate on this project.
Cheers,
Taylor
Notice how “Cheers” feels natural and upbeat, perfect for informal or semi-formal tones.
Common Misconceptions About “Cheers”
- “Cheers” is unprofessional everywhere – Not true. It depends on the relationship and context.
- It only means “goodbye” – Actually, it also conveys thanks and goodwill.
- It’s only British – It’s widely used in international business, but tone matters.
Summary Table: Appropriate vs. Inappropriate Uses of “Cheers”
| Scenario | Appropriate? | Notes |
| Internal team emails | ✅ Yes | Friendly and casual |
| Client follow-up (known contact) | ✅ Yes | Shows approachability |
| Cold outreach | ❌ No | Too casual, may seem unprofessional |
| Formal proposal | ❌ No | Use “Best regards” or “Sincerely” |
| International recipients | ⚠️ Depends | Check cultural norms |
Conclusion
“Cheers” is a friendly, casual, and approachable email closing, ideal for internal teams, creative industries, and familiar contacts. However, it’s not suitable for formal, cold, or cross-cultural emails. By understanding context, audience, and tone, you can use “Cheers” effectively to convey warmth and professionalism simultaneously.
FAQs
1. Is “Cheers” considered unprofessional?
Not always. It’s professional in informal or semi-formal contexts, but avoid it in highly formal emails.
2. Can I use “Cheers” with clients?
Yes, but only if you have a friendly, established relationship. For new clients, stick to neutral closings.
3. What is a more formal alternative to “Cheers”?
“Best regards,” “Kind regards,” or “Sincerely” are safe, professional alternatives.
4. How do cultural differences affect using “Cheers”?
Some countries may see it as too casual, so research the recipient’s culture before using it.
5. Should “Cheers” always be followed by a comma?
Yes, in emails, it’s standard to write “Cheers,” followed by your name.
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