How to Write a Letter in Spanish
Whether you're writing an email, or correo electrónico, to a hotel to book your reservation or you're catching up with an old friend by snail mail, knowing how to write a basic letter, or carta, in Spanish will help you communicate better and feel more confident in your linguistic abilities.
In this article, we'll show you everything you need to know about writing a letter in Spanish.
How to Begin a Letter
To begin a letter in Spanish, you need to address the recipient of your letter. Check out our list to see a couple of different options for greetings.
What to Include in the Body of a Letter
Now for the fun part - the content of your letter! In the following table, you'll find a list of phrases and words that you can use to write a form letter, like a business letter, or an informal email to a friend.
Remember that Spanish has formal and informal forms of you:
- Tú is used when talking to people you know, like your friends, or people the same age as you or younger.
- Usted is used when talking to someone you don’t know, someone older, or someone to whom you wish to show respect and formality.
Want to learn more about the differences between tú and usted? Check out our article on the Spanish you.
How to End a Letter
There are a variety of phrases and closings that you can use to end your letter. Check them out here:
Now that you know the different parts of a letter and what to say in them, check out some example letters below!
Informal Letter or Email
Spanish
Hola Patricia,
¿Cómo te va? ¡Tanto tiempo sin hablarnos! ¿Vas a ir a la boda de Matt y Kim? ¡Me encantaría verte!
Hablamos pronto,
Andrés
English
Hi Patricia,
How's it going? Long time no talk! Will you be going to Matt and Kim's wedding? Would be great to see you!
Talk soon,
Andres
Formal Letter
Spanish
A quien pueda interesar:
Escribo para inquirir sobre el estado de mi solicitud de subvención. Adjunto encontrará una copia de la solicitud, junto a otros documentos informativos. Por favor no dude en contactarme si necesita más información. Quedo a la espera de recibir noticias suyas tan pronto le sea posible. Gracias por su asistencia con este asunto.
Cordialmente,
Melinda
English
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to inquire about the status of my grant application. Attached please find a copy of my application, along with other informational documents. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require further information. I look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your assistance in this matter.
Sincerely,
Melinda
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