Learn English – Is ‘Hi ‘ a correct salutation

word-usage

I know that in a salutation, it's preferable to use Dear Mr/Ms/Mrs 'last name'

Is it correct to use Hi "last name" in official email?

I am trying not to be too formal but I was told that it's not proper English.

Best Answer

If you want to use their last name, you should continue to include 'Mr', 'Ms', or 'Mrs' as appropriate. "Hi" is rather informal so keep "Hello" in mind as an alternative. Of course if you really don't need to be formal you can just address them by their first name.

Hello, Mr. [LastName]. <- Most formal of these options (Probably best for official email)

Hi, Ms. [LastName].

Hi, [FirstName]. <- Least formal.

For grammar purposes: A last name should usually have either the person's title (Dr, Prof, etc) or the honorific (Mr, Ms, etc). The title takes precedence.

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