What is V/R in email?

Email communication has developed its own set of etiquette, conventions, and abbreviations over the years. One abbreviation that is commonly seen in professional and military correspondence is “V/R.” While it may not be as widely recognized outside of certain industries, understanding its meaning and usage can improve the clarity and professionalism of email exchanges.

For businesses and marketers, email etiquette is critical in fostering good relationships with customers, partners, and clients. This article explores the meaning of V/R in email, how it is used in marketing, its variations, and practical examples of its application.

Definition of V/R in email

V/R stands for “Very Respectfully” and is typically used as a complimentary closing in emails. It is primarily used in:

• military correspondence: Where formal communication is required;
• government and official emails: To maintain professionalism;
• corporate settings: When addressing higher-ranking officials or executives.

The phrase conveys a sense of respect and professionalism, making it a preferred closing in hierarchical environments.

Common variations of V/R

• “v/r” (lowercase): A more informal or relaxed version, sometimes seen in casual professional emails;
• “V/r” (capitalized first letter): Maintains a balance between formality and casual tone;
• “VR” (without a slash): Less common but occasionally used in fast-paced digital communication.

How V/R is used in marketing emails

Although V/R is traditionally associated with military and formal business correspondence, it can also have applications in marketing and corporate email communication. Here’s how it can be relevant:

1. Professional email sign-off: Marketers and sales representatives might use V/R when addressing senior executives, government officials, or high-profile clients.
2. Respectful customer engagement: In industries where formality is expected (such as law, finance, or consulting), using V/R can enhance professionalism in client emails.
3. Partnership and B2B communication: When dealing with business collaborations, V/R can be used as a sign of mutual respect between organizations.
4. Cold outreach and networking: A respectful closing like V/R can make cold emails more courteous and well-received.
5. Government and military marketing campaigns: Businesses dealing with government contracts or military personnel may adopt V/R to align with professional norms in those sectors.

While V/R is not commonly used in casual or promotional emails, it can be effective in formal, high-stakes, or B2B email marketing.

Types of V/R in marketing emails

Depending on the context, different variations of V/R may be used in marketing and professional communication. Here are the primary types:

1. Formal B2B and corporate email closings

• used in business communication, especially when addressing C-level executives;
• example:
  “We appreciate your time and consideration of our proposal.
  V/R,
  John Smith”

2. Sales and cold outreach emails

• when reaching out to high-ranking individuals or potential clients in a formal industry;
• example:
  “We believe our solution aligns with your company’s objectives and would love to discuss further.
  V/R,
  Sarah Williams, Business Development Manager”

3. Government and military-related marketing emails

• when a company provides products or services to government agencies, they might use V/R to align with formal norms;
• example:
  “Thank you for considering our proposal for government procurement. We look forward to working with you.
  V/R,
  Mark Johnson, Contract Specialist”

4. Customer support and high-value client communication

• in high-end industries (luxury, legal, consulting), V/R can reinforce respect in customer interactions;
• example:
  “Your satisfaction is our priority. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions.
  V/R,
  Customer Experience Team”

5. Event and webinar invitations for high-level executives

• when inviting senior executives to exclusive events, a respectful closing like V/R adds professionalism;
• example:
  “We would be honored to have you join our executive roundtable discussion.
  V/R,
  Event Coordinator, Global Business Summit”

While V/R is not suitable for casual email marketing (such as newsletters or promotional offers), it serves an essential role in formal business communication within marketing and sales contexts.

Examples of V/R in marketing emails

Let’s look at a few real-world scenarios where marketers and professionals might use V/R in emails.

1. Formal business proposal email

Subject line: Proposal for Strategic Partnership

Dear Mr. Thompson,

I appreciate the opportunity to present our company’s capabilities in supporting your initiatives. Our team has outlined a tailored approach that we believe will provide significant value.

Please find the attached proposal for your review. I would be happy to schedule a call to discuss further.

V/R,
James Anderson
Senior Partnership Manager

2. Government contract inquiry

Subject line: Inquiry Regarding Procurement Opportunities

Dear Procurement Officer,

I am reaching out to inquire about potential opportunities for our company to support your agency with specialized solutions. We have extensive experience in serving government clients and would welcome a discussion at your convenience.

Please let me know a suitable time for a call.

V/R,
Emily Carter
Government Relations Manager

3. Executive-level networking email

Subject line: Invitation to Exclusive Leadership Forum

Dear Ms. Reynolds,

On behalf of our organization, I would like to personally invite you to an exclusive leadership forum featuring industry thought leaders. Your insights and expertise would be a valuable addition to the discussion.

Please let me know if you would be interested in attending.

V/R,
Michael Bennett
Director of Strategic Partnerships

4. High-value customer support response

Subject line: Response to Your Inquiry

Dear Mr. Davis,

Thank you for reaching out to us. We sincerely appreciate your loyalty and are happy to assist you with your request.

Please let us know if there’s anything else we can do for you.

V/R,
Jessica Parker
Customer Support Specialist

In each of these examples, V/R adds a professional and respectful tone, making the email feel more formal and courteous.

Wrapping up

While V/R is not a widely used email closing in everyday marketing, it holds significance in formal, business, and military communications. It conveys professionalism, respect, and adherence to traditional email etiquette, making it a suitable sign-off in hierarchical or high-stakes interactions.

For marketers and business professionals, using V/R appropriately can help:

• strengthen relationships with executives, government officials, and high-value clients;
• maintain a professional tone in formal correspondence;
• align with the email etiquette of industries that expect respect-driven communication.

However, it’s important to ensure that V/R is used in the right context. For general marketing emails, casual newsletters, and promotional campaigns, more neutral or warm closings (e.g., "Best regards," "Sincerely," or "Thank you") are typically more effective.

By understanding when and how to use V/R appropriately, professionals can ensure their emails reflect professionalism, respect, and industry-specific etiquette while strengthening their business communications.