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Being a professional in your work sphere means that you have to be the best at what you do and know the common sayings and basic politeness of the business letter format if you want other people to take you seriously. And though we all try our best to sound professional in work emails, sometimes missed deadlines, lack of response, and overwhelming projects can put us on edge. 

One of the keys to keeping a cool facade is the art of sending an email stuffed with polite common phrases, the kind that puts a glossy cover over your underlying frustrations. However, be careful when writing a passive-aggressive letter to someone—the truth might come out at some point, and the best outcome of that is you turning into a legendary office joke.

We here at Bored Panda have gathered some of the most common work letter examples and their true savage meanings. Scroll below to see examples of some passive-aggressive work correspondence and funny email translations!

#1

"Humor graphic illustrating email phrases with hidden meanings."

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Hans
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"to put it that even a simple mind like you understands"

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    #2

    Polite email phrase with different meaning: "Not sure if my last email was received…" hinting at impatience.

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    Bob Beltcher
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    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That's why you send emails with receipts lol. I know you opened, it got the receipt back and saved.

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    #3

    Text image with humorous email phrase illustrating polite but different meaning.

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    Bob Beltcher
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    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    God yes, that's why we archive everything and the IT complains that our email servers are full.

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    How Do You Know if an Email is Passive-Aggressive?

    You’ve just received an email, and something about it seems off. It’s dressed in a suit of politeness, but underneath, there’s a vibe of sarcasm. If the email is heavy on corporate email lingo that reads like “Just a friendly reminder” or “As previously stated,” it’s waving a red flag at you.

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    Those are the hallmarks of passive-aggressive emails. And the sign-off? If it’s a frosty “Best Regards” when you know there’s a storm brewing, that’s your clue. It’s the art of email translations, where “Best” doesn't always mean best wishes.

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    #5

    "Email phrase 'Friendly reminder' with hidden urgency, highlighting subtle meanings in communication."

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    Hans
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    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I always wonder if I should send unfriendly reminders...

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    #6

    Text with email phrases highlighting their hidden meanings: "As per our earlier conversation on the matter."

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    Shari H
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    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I use this as a confirmation. Typically in a follow-up email to a phone call so that I can get written confirmation of the discussion and ensure we are all clear on what is being done.

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    How Do I Stop Being Passive-Aggressive in Email?

    Switching gears to your own email habits, it’s key to keep passive aggression out of your digital correspondence. Clarity is king. Be direct, be kind, and ditch the double meanings. Instead of falling into the trap of sending passive-aggressive emails, state your needs or next steps with straightforward kindness.

    And about those closings—skip the passive-aggressive email sign-off like “Regards” when you feel anything but. A simple “Thank you” will do. It shows you’re above the fray, keeping it professional without the side of sass.

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    #9

    "Email phrase 'According to my records' revealing hidden meaning, presented with humorous twist on BoredPanda."

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    Bob Beltcher
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    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't care what your opinion is. The record states xyz and if it's not documented then it didn't happen.

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    #10

    Polite email phrase with hidden meaning: "Thanks in advance" implies obligation to complete a task.

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    Bob Beltcher
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    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I don't want to have to tell you again so I'm going to be passive aggressive with my thank you in hopes that it will guilt you into doing it.

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    #12

    Text illustration showing "Per policy" phrase revealing subtle email meaning.

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    Bob Beltcher
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    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Lmao! I use this on a daily basis. As an regulator part if my job is making sure you follow your own damn policy that was approved by the board. It's YOUR policy, not mine. All you have to do is follow what you said you would do.

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    #13

    "Just following up" phrase with hidden meaning humor, example of email communication nuances.

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    Sammiche
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    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "I know you told me yesterday that you're working on it, but I've got someone back here telling me how 'urgent' this is and they won't be satisfied unless they're convinced that I'm devoting all of my time and effort to their issue."

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    #15

    Text illustrating email phrases with subtle meanings on a minimalist Bored Panda background.

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    #21

    "Quote showing email phrases with hidden meanings on Bored Panda, discussing communication nuances."

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    Oerff On Tour
    Community Member
    6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    "I want this in black and white. I'm just trying to cover my own a*s. "

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    In navigating the corporate world, understanding how generations differ in their approach to communication can be enlightening. The use of email sign-offs is one such place where variations become apparent, especially with Gen Z making waves with their unconventional styles. This can be seen in their refusal to adhere to traditional norms, adding a touch of personal flair to what many consider mundane.

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    For a deeper dive into how Gen Z employees express themselves through their email signatures, especially when they choose not to hold back in corporate communication, explore these creative approaches by the younger generation.