When ending an email, letter, or even a greeting card, choosing the right closing phrase is important because it leaves a final impression.
Two phrases that often confuse writers are “best wish” and “best wishes.” Although they look similar, they have clear differences in meaning, tone, and usage.
In this article, we will explore:
- The meaning of each phrase
- Grammar and correctness
- Popularity and cultural acceptance
- Examples in real-world use
- Situations where one might be preferred
- Other similar alternatives for email and letter closings
Let’s dive deeper into each part!
1. Meaning and Definition
Best Wish
- The phrase “best wish” refers to one single wish or hope for someone.
- It can be grammatically correct in a full sentence, but it sounds incomplete if used alone, especially as an email or letter closing.
- Example of use:
“My best wish is for your speedy recovery.” - Here, you are clearly emphasizing one specific wish (health).
Best Wishes
- “Best wishes” is the plural form and refers to multiple good thoughts for the person’s future, success, happiness, or well-being.
- It is a standard, polite expression widely recognized in both professional and personal writing.
- Example of use:
“Best wishes for your future endeavors!” - It conveys a broad range of goodwill rather than focusing on just one hope.
Key takeaway:
If you want to offer multiple hopes or just a general feeling of goodwill (without specifying one wish), “best wishes” is the correct and natural choice.
2. Grammar and Correctness
Singular vs. Plural Form
- “Wish” (singular) = only one idea or hope.
- “Wishes” (plural) = multiple ideas or hopes.
In letter writing:
- Closing with a singular noun (like “best wish”) feels awkward because readers expect a plural or collective positive closing.
- English letter conventions often prefer the plural form for warmth and completeness.
Is “Best Wish” Wrong?
- Technically, no. “Best wish” is grammatically correct if it’s part of a complete sentence, such as:
“My best wish for you is a safe journey.” - But it is inappropriate as a standalone closing like “Best wish,” because it sounds abrupt and unnatural.
Therefore:
✅ Correct: Best wishes,
❌ Unnatural: Best wish, (as a standalone closing)
3. Popularity and Cultural Acceptance
How Common is Each Form?
- “Best wishes” is extremely common in emails, letters, cards, and even in spoken communication.
- “Best wish” is rarely used outside of very specific, carefully crafted sentences.
Why is “Best Wishes” Preferred?
- Warmth: Saying “wishes” feels more abundant and generous.
- Conventional: Native English speakers are used to “best wishes” as a default polite ending.
- Versatility: “Best wishes” fits both formal (business) and informal (personal) contexts.
In a survey of professional emails, closings like “Best wishes,” “Kind regards,” and “Sincerely” were among the top three most used. “Best wish” did not even appear as a common closing.
Cultural Insight:
- English favors a tone of abundance when it comes to emotions and goodwill.
- Thus, plurals like “congratulations,” “condolences,” and “best wishes” are favored over singular forms.
4. Examples of Real-World Usage
Here are practical examples that show how each phrase appears in communication:
Correct usage of “Best wishes”:
- “Best wishes for your new project!”
- “Thank you for your help. Best wishes,”
- “Sending you my best wishes during this exciting time.”
Rare, correct usage of “Best wish” (within a full sentence):
- “My best wish is that you find peace and happiness in your new home.”
Incorrect or awkward closing with “Best wish”:
- Best wish, (feels incomplete and unnatural)
Pro Tip:
When in doubt, always use “Best wishes” unless you are writing a full sentence that spells out a specific wish.
5. Situations Where One Might Be Preferred
| Situation | Best Choice | Reason |
| Business email | Best wishes | Polite, professional, culturally accepted |
| Formal letter (e.g., job application) | Best wishes | Safe and appropriate tone |
| Birthday card or congratulatory message | Best wishes | Warm, celebratory, natural |
| Specific personal message (very rare) | Best wish (inside full sentence) | If emphasizing one specific hope |
Simple Rule:
If you are signing off, use “Best wishes.”
If you are writing a sentence about one wish, you may use “best wish.”
6. Alternative Phrases for Email or Letter Closings
If you want variety, here are other popular alternatives:
- Kind regards – Neutral, polite for professional use.
- Warm regards – Slightly more friendly than “Kind regards.”
- Sincerely – Very formal and traditional.
- All the best – Friendly and informal.
- Warmest wishes – Very friendly, for close relationships.
- With appreciation – Good when thanking someone.
- Best regards – A strong balance between formal and friendly.
Example:
“Kind regards,” is commonly used in business communications where you still want to sound respectful but not overly personal.
7. Final Thoughts
Understanding the subtle difference between “best wish” and “best wishes” can improve your written communication and leave a better impression.
While “best wish” is grammatically correct in full sentences when mentioning a specific wish, it is almost never used as a standalone closing.
✅ “Best wishes” is the trusted, natural, and polite phrase used for signing off in emails, letters, and cards.
It leaves your communication sounding friendly, respectful, and complete.
When you’re unsure about how to close a message, “Best wishes” will always serve you well — in both personal and professional settings.
