Definition

Noun: A private, informal written message from one individual to another, typically concerning private matters, personal news, thoughts, or feelings, rather than official or business topics.

Usage

A "personal letter" is used for private communication. It is often handwritten or typed in an informal style and sent via postal mail or email. Its primary purpose is to maintain personal relationships by sharing life updates, expressing emotions, or having a private conversation.

Examples

• She found an old personal letter from her grandmother in the attic.
• In the age of texting, receiving a thoughtful personal letter feels special.
• He wrote a long personal letter to his friend abroad, catching up on all the news.

Advanced Usage

• Distinction from Formal Correspondence: The term explicitly distinguishes private correspondence from business letters, legal notices, or official circulars. The content is subjective and intended for a specific recipient.
  • The envelope contained a personal letter, not the invoice I was expecting.

Variants and Related Words

• Letter (n.): A more general term for a written message. A "personal letter" is a type of letter.
• Note (n.): A short, informal letter or message.
• Epistle (n.): A formal or literary term for a letter, often used humorously for a long or elaborate personal letter.
• Correspondence (n.): The broader activity of exchanging letters.

Synonyms

• Private letter
• Informal letter
• Personal correspondence

Antonyms

• Business letter
• Official letter
• Form letter
• Memorandum (memo)

Related Phrases

• Personal correspondence: Refers to the ongoing exchange of personal letters between people.
  • Their personal correspondence spanned over fifty years.

Noun

1. a letter dealing with personal affairs