When reading or writing letters, you might have come across the term “P.S.” and wondered, what does p.s. stand for on a letter? This seemingly simple abbreviation holds a special place in the art of letter writing, offering a unique way to add extra thoughts after the main body has concluded. Understanding what p.s. stands for on a letter not only deepens your grasp of classic correspondence but also enriches your communication skills in both personal and professional contexts.
What Does P.S. Stand For on a Letter?
The abbreviation “P.S.” stands for “postscript,” a Latin word meaning “written after.” It is used to include an additional message or afterthought that the writer wants to share, but which was not included in the main body of the letter. The p.s. section is traditionally placed at the end of a letter, following the signature.
The Origin and History of P.S.
The use of postscript dates back centuries when handwritten letters were the primary form of communication. Because editing was cumbersome and sometimes impossible, writers would add a postscript to communicate extra information they had forgotten or thought of after concluding their letter. This tradition has persisted into modern digital communication, extending even to emails and casual notes.
Common Uses of P.S. in Letters
Writers use p.s. for various reasons, from emphasizing an important reminder to adding a warm, casual comment that lightens the tone. Here are some common uses:
- Adding a missed detail: Highlighting something left out of the main message.
- Emphasizing an important point: Drawing special attention to a specific fact.
- Injecting humor or personality: Leaving a playful or friendly note to the reader.
- Including a call-to-action: Reminding the recipient about an upcoming event or task.
How to Use P.S. Correctly in Your Letters
When wondering what does p.s. stand for on a letter and how to use it properly, keep in mind the following guidelines to ensure it is effective:
- Place it after your signature: The p.s. always comes at the very end, after you have signed off.
- Use a period after each letter: The correct form is “P.S.”, though “PS” is also acceptable in informal writing.
- Keep it brief and to the point: Postscripts are meant to be short, so avoid writing lengthy paragraphs.
Examples of P.S. in Letters
Here are some practical examples showing how p.s. is used in different contexts:
- Example 1 – Personal Letter: “P.S. Don’t forget to bring your camera to the reunion!”
- Example 2 – Business Letter: “P.S. Please confirm your attendance by Friday.”
- Example 3 – Friendly Note: “P.S. I can’t wait to see you next week!”
The Role of P.S. in Modern Communication
Although digital communication has largely replaced letters, the charm of p.s. remains relevant. Emails commonly include postscripts to emphasize key information or add a personal touch. On social media and marketing emails, p.s. is often leveraged to capture attention or deliver a final call-to-action, showing the enduring appeal of this tradition.
In summary, knowing what does p.s. stand for on a letter helps you appreciate an age-old communication tool that adds personality, emphasis, and clarity to your messages. Whether in formal correspondence or casual chatting, incorporating a p.s. thoughtfully enriches the reader’s experience.
