B2 — Upper intermediateWriting· Professional writing
Writing: A Formal Email of Complaint
Structure a polite but firm complaint that gets a result.
25 min Medium
A strong complaint email has four short paragraphs: reason, problem, effect, request.
- Opening: I am writing regarding order 4821, placed on 3 March.
- Problem: The item arrived damaged and the manual was missing.
- Effect: As a result, I have been unable to use the device.
- Request: I would be grateful if you could arrange a replacement within seven days.
Keep the tone neutral. Formal English shows strength through precision, not anger.
Close with I look forward to your reply, followed by Yours sincerely when you know the name, Yours faithfully when you do not.