Regards vs. Thanks — What's the Difference?

"Regards" is a closing salutation used in emails and letters to convey a sense of respect or good wishes towards the recipient. It is often used in formal or professional correspondence to maintain a polite and professional tone. On the other hand, "Thanks" is an expression of gratitude used in both formal and informal contexts. It can be used to close communications, but is also commonly used on its own to show appreciation for assistance, gifts, or favors received.

While "Regards" can be modified to reflect different levels of warmth or formality, such as "Warm regards" or "Best regards," it generally remains within the context of professional or formal correspondence. "Thanks," however, can be adapted to a wide range of situations, from a casual "Thanks!" in a text message to a more heartfelt "Thank you so much" in a personal letter or email.

The use of "Regards" implies a certain level of detachment or formality, making it suitable for business emails or when communicating with acquaintances. "Thanks," however, implies a more personal interaction and can indicate a closer relationship or a direct expression of gratitude towards the recipient's actions or presence.

In multicultural settings, "Regards" is a safe and neutral choice for closing a message when the sender is unsure about the appropriate level of formality or familiarity with the recipient. Meanwhile, "Thanks" can sometimes be seen as informal or overly familiar in certain cultures or contexts, so it's important to consider the relationship and the situation when using it.

Choosing between "Regards" and "Thanks" can also depend on the purpose of the communication. "Regards" is more suitable for general correspondence without a specific call to action or request, while "Thanks" is ideal when acknowledging someone's effort, response, or contribution to a discussion or project.