Basic Letter and Email Format in French Immersion

Key Concepts

• Salutation
• Introduction
• Body of the Letter
• Closing
• Signature
• Email Format

Salutation

The salutation is the polite greeting at the beginning of a letter or email. Common salutations include:

• Cher Monsieur/Chère Madame - Dear Sir/Dear Madam (formal)
• Bonjour - Hello (informal)
• Cher/Chère [Name] - Dear [Name] (semi-formal)

Example: "Cher Monsieur Dupont,"

Analogies: Think of the salutation as the handshake that starts a conversation.

Introduction

The introduction provides context for the letter or email. It states the purpose of the communication and sets the tone for the rest of the message.

Example: "Je vous écris pour vous informer de..." (I am writing to inform you of...)

Analogies: Consider the introduction as the opening statement that sets the stage for the main act.

Body of the Letter

The body of the letter contains the main content. It should be clear, concise, and well-organized. Use paragraphs to separate different points.

Example: "Tout d'abord, je tiens à vous remercier pour..." (First of all, I would like to thank you for...)

Analogies: Think of the body as the main course of a meal, providing the substance and nourishment.

Closing

The closing is the polite ending of the letter or email. It summarizes the main points and provides a courteous conclusion.

Example: "En espérant que cette information vous sera utile, je vous prie d'agréer, Madame, l'expression de mes salutations distinguées." (Hoping this information will be useful to you, please accept, Madam, the expression of my distinguished greetings.)

Analogies: Consider the closing as the final bow that concludes a performance.

Signature

The signature includes the sender's name and any additional titles or contact information. It follows the closing.

Example: "Cordialement, [Your Name]"

Analogies: Think of the signature as the autograph that authenticates the document.

Email Format

Email format is similar to letter format but is more concise. It includes a subject line, salutation, body, and closing.

Example: Subject: "Demande de renseignements" (Request for information)

Analogies: Consider the email format as a streamlined version of the letter, designed for quick and efficient communication.