The exact reply to "cheers" is highly contextual, varying significantly depending on whether it's a verbal exchange or written communication, and most importantly, your relationship with the sender or speaker. There isn't a single, definitive answer, as the appropriate response is shaped by the purpose and tone of the interaction, the familiarity between individuals, and cultural norms.
Replying in Email Correspondence
When an email concludes with "cheers," the response you choose should align with the overall message, the nature of your relationship with the sender, and the professional or informal tone of your communication. This is because there is no universal reply; it depends on several factors, including the email's purpose and tone, your familiarity with the sender, and the cultural context.
Professional Email Exchanges
In a professional setting, "cheers" can be a slightly informal closing. Your reply should maintain a professional yet appropriate level of warmth.
-
Formal or Initial Interactions:
If the email is formal or from someone you don't know well, and they've used "cheers" perhaps as a casual sign-off, you might opt for a slightly more traditional closing in your reply.- "Thank you"
- "Best regards,"
- "Sincerely," (if very formal)
- "Kind regards,"
-
Familiar or Ongoing Professional Exchanges:
If you have an established working relationship and the tone is generally friendly, you can reciprocate with a similar level of informality, or subtly escalate it if you wish to build rapport.- "Thanks!"
- "Sounds good, thank you!"
- "Great, cheers!" (if you want to mirror their closing)
- "Talk soon,"
- "Best,"
Informal or Casual Email Communication
When "cheers" is used among close colleagues, friends, or in very casual professional settings, your reply can be equally relaxed.
- Close Colleagues or Friends:
- "You too!"
- "Thanks!"
- "No worries,"
- "Cheers!" (returning the sentiment is perfectly acceptable and common)
- "Catch you later,"
Replying in Verbal or Social Settings
The response to "cheers" in a verbal context is typically more immediate and can involve non-verbal cues.
During a Toast
When someone says "cheers!" as a toast, especially before drinking:
- Reciprocate: The most common response is to say "Cheers!" back.
- Acknowledge: A simple nod, a smile, or making eye contact can also suffice.
- Thank: If the toast was specifically for you, a quiet "Thank you" is appropriate.
As a Farewell or Acknowledgment
In some regions, "cheers" is used casually as a farewell or a way to say "thank you" or "you're welcome."
- Farewell:
- "You too!"
- "See ya!"
- "Bye!"
- "Thanks!"
- Acknowledgment/Thanks:
- "No worries!"
- "You're welcome!"
- "My pleasure!"
- "Anytime!"
Key Factors Influencing Your Reply
To determine the most appropriate reply, consider these essential factors:
- Relationship and Familiarity: Are you communicating with a boss, a new client, a long-time colleague, or a friend? The closer and more established the relationship, the more informal your reply can be.
- Purpose and Tone of the Communication: Is it a formal business proposal, a quick update, or a casual chat? Match the formality and tone.
- Cultural Context: The usage of "cheers" and its appropriate replies can vary significantly across different cultures and regions (e.g., UK, Australia vs. USA). Always consider the cultural background of both parties.
- Your Own Communication Style: While adapting is key, ensure your reply still feels authentic to your professional or personal communication style.
Summary Table of Responses
| Context / Relationship | Email Reply Examples | Verbal Reply Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Professional (Formal) | "Thank you," "Best regards," "Sincerely," | N/A (rarely used formally as toast) |
| Professional (Familiar) | "Thanks!" "Sounds good," "Cheers!" "Best," | "You too!" "Thanks!" (as farewell) |
| Informal / Casual | "You too!" "Thanks!" "No worries," "Cheers!" | "Cheers!" (toast/farewell) "Bye!" |
| Toast | N/A | "Cheers!" (reciprocate), Nod, Smile |
Ultimately, the most effective reply to "cheers" is one that feels natural, respectful, and maintains the desired tone of your interaction.
[[Communication Etiquette]]
