When you come across “PS” at the end of a letter or email, you might wonder, what does PS stand for in a letter? This simple yet powerful abbreviation carries more than just a few letters; it adds a special touch to communication. Understanding its origin, usage, and the emotional resonance it conveys can enhance how you write personal messages or professional correspondence.
What Does PS Stand For in a Letter?
PS stands for postscript, derived from the Latin term “post scriptum,” which literally means “written after.” In traditional handwritten or typed letters, it refers to an additional remark added after the main body of the letter and the signature. This convention dates back to a time when writers wanted to include something they forgot or add an afterthought without rewriting the whole letter.
Origin and Historical Context
The tradition of postscript traces back hundreds of years to letter writing before digital communication existed. Because rewriting an entire letter was cumbersome, writers included a brief addition at the bottom, known as a postscript — hence PS. Despite technological advancements, PS remains popular even in emails and digital correspondence.
Common Uses of PS in Letters
In letters and emails, using PS has several typical purposes:
- Adding extra information or clarifications
- Including a call to action or reminder
- Injecting a conversational or personal tone
- Highlighting an important point or gift mention
For example, after signing off, a letter might end with: PS: Don’t forget to bring the documents next week! This gives the message added emphasis outside the main text.
Why You Should Know What PS Means in Letters
Knowing what PS stands for in a letter and how to use it appropriately can enhance your communication effectiveness. It helps you:
- Engage your reader by adding a friendly or surprising comment
- Emphasize important details without cluttering the main message
- Keep tone casual or personal when needed, especially in personal letters
- Add final thoughts after you’ve signed off, which can feel like a whisper or secret shared with the reader
In a business context, PS is sometimes used in marketing emails to highlight deals or calls to action, boosting response rates due to its eye-catching positioning.
The Emotional Impact of PS
Many readers find PS messages to have a warm, intimate effect because it feels like a personal aside. It breaks the formality and invites connection. When you include a PS, you mimic natural conversation patterns, where people often remember their last words the most vividly.
Best Practices for Using PS in Letters
To use PS effectively in your letters or emails, follow these tips:
- Keep it brief: The PS should be a short, punchy remark or reminder.
- Make it relevant: Ensure the postscript adds meaningful content or value.
- Use it sparingly: Too many postscripts can dilute their power.
- Maintain tone consistency: Match the formality and style of the main letter unless intentionally making it playful or informal.
In marketing, consider testing different PS messages to see what resonates best with your audience.
Alternatives to PS
Occasionally, you might see related abbreviations like PPS (post-postscript) or PPPS (post-post-postscript), indicating further thoughts added after the initial postscript. While less common nowadays, they emphasize additional notes sequentially.
In digital communication, some prefer to integrate their afterthoughts within the main body or in a follow-up message rather than using PS. However, PS still remains valuable for its style and impact.
Summary: Understanding What PS Stands for in a Letter
In summary, knowing “what does PS stand for in a letter” helps you appreciate the historical roots and practical uses of this tiny but mighty abbreviation. PS means postscript, a brief addition after your letter’s conclusion, often used to add important, personal, or memorable details. Its power lies in its ability to engage the reader, create emotional warmth, and highlight key messages.
Whether you’re crafting a heartfelt letter, a formal email, or a marketing message, a well-placed PS can make your communication stand out and resonate deeply.
