Bests or Best? Can You Use Bests in an Email?

When I first started learning English, I often felt lost in its language rules because the linguistic nuances made even a simple word feel complicated. The difference between best and bests is a good example. At first glance, the plural form seems natural, but once you dig into the tiny detail behind it, you realize how little the rule changes the whole message. I remember correcting newer writers in professional settings, especially in emails, where every line must shine. Many learners feel surprised when they discover that “bests” works only in very specific cases, almost like peeling an onion with layers of meaning hidden under each peel.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that understanding this choice can change your sense of command over the language and even shape the impact of your writing. In countless conversations, people have asked me whether “bests” is acceptable, and I’ve seen how every writer handles its exceptions differently. But as you explore these countless examples, you start seeing how both forms fit into real-life use, especially when you want your message to feel warm, polished, and purposeful. In my experience, choosing the right form isn’t just a rule, it’s a small stylistic decision that can subtly shift the tone of your communication.

Understanding the Word “Best”

The word “Best” is versatile. It can function as an adjective, noun, or adverb depending on context. In emails, it often appears in sign-offs, either alone or as part of a phrase like “Best regards” or “All the best.”

Examples of correct usage in emails:

• Best regards, Sarah
• All the best, Tom

Here, “Best” conveys goodwill and professionalism. It’s concise, friendly, and universally recognized. Unlike longer sign-offs, it doesn’t risk sounding overly formal or outdated.

Can You Use “Bests”?

The short answer is no. Using “Bests” in an email is generally considered incorrect and unprofessional. English doesn’t pluralize superlative adjectives like “best.” While it may appear in casual or non-native writing, it doesn’t conform to standard grammar rules.

Why “Bests” feels wrong:

• “Best” is already the superlative form of “good.” Adding an “s” is redundant.
• Phrases like “Bests regards” or “All the bests” sound awkward and unpolished.
• Recipients may perceive it as a typo or a lack of attention to detail.

Correct vs. incorrect examples:

Even though some writers use “Bests” casually, it’s better to stick with “Best” or other well-established alternatives.

Why People Use “Bests” Anyway

Many people mistakenly use “Bests” due to:

• Influence of informal writing: Text messaging and casual emails sometimes lead to relaxed grammar.
• Non-native English usage: Some learners assume pluralizing words always works.
• Cultural differences: Certain countries or industries may accept unconventional email endings in informal settings.

Despite these reasons, using “Bests” in a professional context can undermine your credibility. It’s best to avoid it unless writing casually to a close friend who understands your style.

Best Alternatives to “Bests” in Emails

Instead of risking confusion, there are numerous email closings you can use that are professional, friendly, or casual depending on context.

Professional email closings:

• Best regards – neutral and widely accepted
• All the best – slightly friendlier, still professional
• Warm regards – polite and approachable
• Kind regards – formal yet friendly
• Sincerely – classic and formal

Friendly or casual email closings:

• Cheers – informal and upbeat
• Take care – warm and approachable
• Tak soon – conversational and casual

Table of email sign-offs:

This table provides a quick reference for choosing the right closing depending on the tone of your email.

Email Etiquette Tips

Email etiquette goes beyond sign-offs, but endings are one of the most visible elements. A well-chosen closing communicates professionalism and thoughtfulness.

Tips for email endings:

• Match the closing to your relationship with the recipient.
• Keep it concise; one or two words are usually enough.
• Avoid overly casual endings in formal business emails.
• Use a consistent style across emails to maintain professionalism.

Examples of proper context usage:

• Formal business email: “Best regards, Maria”
• Colleague/friendly professional email: “All the best, Jordan”
• Close friend or peer: “Cheers, Liam”

Read More:Other Ways to Say “I’m Waiting for Your Response”:

Fun Facts & Grammar Insights

Did you know that “Best regards” dates back to the 19th century? It originally appeared in handwritten letters as a polite, professional way to conclude correspondence.

English generally avoids plurals like “bests” because superlative adjectives already indicate the highest degree of something. Therefore, adding “s” is both grammatically unnecessary and stylistically awkward.

Famous email etiquette guides, including the Harvard Business Review and Grammarly, consistently advise against using “Bests.” Instead, they recommend simple and professional closings like “Best regards” or “All the best.”

Quick Reference Guide

For readers who want an instant cheat sheet, here’s a summary of email closings and their appropriate tone:

Dos and Don’ts:

• ✅ Do use “Best regards” for professional emails.
• ✅ Do adjust the tone based on your audience.
• ❌ Don’t use “Bests” in professional correspondence.
•  Don’t overcomplicate your closing with long phrases.

Case Studies: Real-World Examples

1. Corporate emails:
   • Microsoft employees are often advised to use “Best regards” or “Kind regards” in internal and external communication.
   • Using “Bests” would appear unprofessional in formal email threads.
2. Startups and informal companies:
   • Some tech startups allow casual endings like “Cheers” or “All the best.”
   • Even in casual environments, “Bests” is rare and rarely recommended.
3. International communications:
   • Non-native speakers sometimes use “Bests”, but style guides suggest correcting it to “Best” to avoid misunderstandings.

Conclusion

Choosing between best and bests becomes much easier once you understand how English tone works in real communication. While best fits almost every situation, bests appears only in specific, stylistic choices, especially in friendly sign-offs. When you know the difference, your writing feels smoother, clearer, and more confident.

FAQs

1. Is “bests” grammatically correct?

Yes, but it’s used only in limited, informal sign-offs like “My bests to your family.” Most writers prefer “best.”

2. Should I use “best” or “bests” in emails?

Use “best” because it’s standard and professional. “Bests” can feel unusual in work settings.

3. Why does “bests” sound strange to many learners?

Because English rarely uses “best” as a noun, so its plural form isn’t common.

4. Can “bests” be used to refer to achievements, like “personal bests”?

 Yes, when “best” means “top result,” the plural “bests” is correct.

5. Which form should beginners stick to?

Stick to “best” unless you clearly mean “top achievements” or you’re using an informal sign-off.

Bella Rae