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Anonymous Posted 16 years ago
Letter Writing

Use of contractions in a business letter

I've been taken to task by a much younger colleague (with whom I job-share) over the use of contractions such as can't, she'll, haven't, etc in communications from my boss. He doesn't mind the use of contractions, just as long as spelling is correct. I have been a secretary for much of my life and have never been corrected over this issue.

My colleague has even taken to correcting my letters after the fact, because she says she "can't stand it"!

Is it so wrong to use contractions?

Many thanks
  

Top answer

I'd say it's up to your boss to say whether it's okay or not. Since he has already said so, perhaps the thing to do is send an e-mail to him copying her and asking for him to clarify his position on this. Or perhaps you don't want to copy her - in case he comes back and says he'd really prefer if you didn't use contractions.

— BarbaraPA

  • I'd say it's up to your boss to say whether it's okay or not.
  • Since he has already said so, perhaps the thing to do is send an e-mail to him copying her and asking for him to clarify his position on this.
  • Or perhaps you don't want to copy her - in case he comes back and says he'd really prefer if you didn't use contractions.
  • "
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1 Answers
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I'd say it's up to your boss to say whether it's okay or not. Since he has already said so, perhaps the thing to do is send an e-mail to him copying her and asking for him to clarify his position on this. Or perhaps you don't want to copy her - in case he comes back and says he'd really prefer if you didn't use contractions. But if he does come back and say "by all means - use contractions" then
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