 Re: Beginning of the letter followed by a comma or colon? American or British English
Here is the rule as stated in various handbooks on American English usage:
In salutations, the comma is used in informal communication.
Dear Joey,
Dear Aunt Ethel,
Dear Mom and Dad,
The colon is used in formal communication, or when you don't know the recipient personally.
Dear Principal Skinner:
Dear Mrs. Flanders:
Dear Director: |