Have you ever come across the abbreviation RE? Perhaps these two innocuous letters are often present in your formal communications. If you are at a loss as to what RE really means, we are helping. RE, or regarding is a common English word with many uses. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
RE is a shorthand form of the word regarding. This word or phrase is used to draw attention to a specific subject of which the recipient has already been informed. RE can also be explained as “with regards to”, “concerning”, or “in reference to”. All of these mean the same but are worded in different ways. Using the shorthand “RE” can be used in place of any of the aforementioned meanings.
RE at the start of a letter is a preface for the purpose of the letter. Typically a person will give a title or small introduction following the RE: notation. RE: a subject line of an email, or even a text message is also a preface to the main topic that will be discussed in the body of the communication. More information can be found in the video (here).
Example Usage
“John is going to write a letter regarding the litter of puppies his foster dog birthed”
“RE: A statement of internship completion.”
“I am contacting you in regard to the outstanding bills due for your car insurance”.
“You should always place “RE” in the topic or at the start of your letters when addressing someone new for professional reasons”.
Origin
The word regard is from an Old French word meaning a consideration, or a judgment. This was first seen in mid-14c. It was also found in a Germanic language around the same time with the meaning of taking heed, or guard. Around the 1510s, the word was still in use, but the meaning changed slightly. At this time the meaning was adapted to mean observe, or to look upon. In English, the word is meant to look upon with respect. By 1610, the word had come to mean look upon with feeling.
The actual meaning of regarding, regarding, in regards to has always meant to draw attention. The exact meaning has improved slightly over the years, but the base meaning has remained constant. As written communication became more commonplace, abbreviations become more prevalent. Just like many other commonly used formal words, regarding also was saddled with its own abbreviation, RE. This shorthand form of the word is commonly used at the start of professional and formal letters, and in emails. This trend becomes widespread in the late 1800s and is still used to this day.
Phrases Similar to RE
- With regard to
- Considering
- As far as
- About
- With respect to
- Concerning
Phrases Opposite to RE
- Disregarding
- Heedless
- Overlooking
- Brush aside
- Neglecting
- Gloss over
What is the Correct Saying?
- The proper saying of RE is – regarding, or in regards to.
Ways People May Incorrectly Say RE
It is not difficult to use RE, or regarding, however, most people place the abbreviation incorrectly. Some ways that RE is used incorrectly are:
- Using RE in a sentence instead of using the whole word or phrase.
- Placing RE anywhere other than the subject line, or ahead of the main topic body.
- Using RE out of context.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase RE
It is appropriate to use the full form of the phrase in most cases. Either regarding or in regards to. Some ways that RE is used correctly are:
- I would like to speak with the manager in regard to an item for which I was overcharged.
- It is important to speak with the principal in regard to problems you may have with any teachers at the facility.
- Did you get an email regarding the updated work schedule that was assigned last week?
- It would be a good idea to get in touch with a doctor with regard to treating your condition.