Have you ever seen P.S at the end of a letter, email, or text message and wondered what it really means? You’re not alone. P.S is a commonly used abbreviation that appears in both casual and professional communication, yet many people are unsure of its purpose.
The term P.S stands for Postscript, which comes from the Latin phrase post scriptum, meaning “written after.” Essentially, it is a way to add extra information or thoughts after the main body of your message.
Even though it originated from handwritten letters, P.S has maintained its relevance in modern digital communication, including emails, text messages, and social media posts.
Understanding what P.S means and how to use it properly can make your messages clearer, more engaging, and even more persuasive. In this guide, we’ll explore its meaning, origin, usage, variations, and examples in detail.
Definition of P.S
The abbreviation P.S stands for Postscript, which originates from the Latin phrase post scriptum, meaning “written after.” It is used to include additional information that the writer wants to add after the main body of a letter, email, or message. Traditionally, P.S was used in handwritten letters when the writer had already signed but remembered something important to include. Instead of rewriting the entire letter, they would simply add a postscript at the bottom.
Even in today’s digital age, P.S remains widely used in emails, text messages, and social media posts. It serves several purposes: highlighting important information, adding a personal touch, or providing a final thought to capture the reader’s attention. For example, in business emails, a P.S can be used to emphasize a special offer or deadline, while in casual messages, it can add a humorous or heartfelt note.
Using P.S effectively is simple: write it after your signature or the main content, followed by the additional point. If needed, multiple P.S lines can be added, though this is less common. Understanding the meaning of P.S and how to use it correctly ensures your messages are clear, professional, and engaging. It’s a small addition that can make a big impact on your communication.
History and Origin of P.S
The abbreviation P.S has a long and interesting history that dates back centuries. It comes from the Latin phrase post scriptum, which literally means “written after.” The practice began in the era of handwritten letters, when paper was precious and rewriting a letter was time-consuming. If the writer remembered something important after signing, they would add a postscript at the bottom instead of starting over. This simple addition allowed for clarity and efficiency in communication.
Throughout history, has been used by writers, politicians, and even famous figures in personal correspondence. Some historical letters included lines that added humor, personal touches, or critical information, showing that the tradition of using postscripts was both practical and expressive.
With the advent of modern communication, including typewritten letters, emails, and instant messaging, the use of evolved but remained relevant. Today, it is not just a practical tool but also a stylistic device. In marketing emails, for example is often used to highlight key points, special offers, or calls-to-action. In personal messages, it can add warmth, humor, or emphasis.
Understanding the history of helps us appreciate its enduring usefulness. From ancient handwritten letters to digital communication, the postscript continues to serve as a concise way to convey additional thoughts, maintain engagement, and leave a lasting impression on the reader.
Proper Placement and Usage of P.S
Using P.S correctly ensures your message is clear, professional, and effective. Traditionally, a P.S is placed after the signature at the end of a letter. For example, in a handwritten or formal letter, you would finish the main content, sign your name, and then add your postscript on a new line below. This placement signals to the reader that it is an additional thought or reminder.
In emails, the principle is similar. You can write your main message, include your closing line or signature, and then add a at the end. Emails often use P.S strategically to emphasize important points, such as deadlines, special offers, or key takeaways. For instance, a business email may end with: P.S Don’t forget to register for our free webinar by Friday! This draws attention without interrupting the main message.
In casual communication, such as text messages or social media posts, P.S can be used more creatively. It can add humor, a personal note, or a final thought that didn’t fit naturally in the main message. For example: P.S I still owe you that coffee from last week ☕.
Tips for proper usage: keep your P.S short, relevant, and purposeful. Avoid overusing it, especially in formal writing, as multiple postscripts can look cluttered. A single, well-crafted P.S can enhance clarity, add personality, and ensure your important points stand out to the reader.
Variations: P.P.S and More
While P.S is the most common abbreviation for a postscript, there are some variations that writers often use to convey additional thoughts. The most familiar is which stands for post-postscript. This is used when you want to add another note after the initial. For example, after signing a letter and adding a, if another thought comes to mind, you can include a P.P.S to maintain clarity and structure. Multiple lines are less common but can be used in casual messages or creative writing for humorous or dramatic effect.
In modern communication, especially digital platforms, people also use variations of creatively. For instance, marketing emails may include followed by a catchy line or call-to-action, and sometimes even a to highlight a bonus offer or reminder. In casual texting or social media, multiple postscripts can add humor, suspense, or an extra layer of personality. For example: P.S I’ll bring the snacks 🍿, P.P.S Don’t tell anyone about the surprise!
It’s important to note that while P.P.S can be fun or expressive, it is best avoided in formal business communication unless it serves a clear purpose. The primary goal of using P.S or P.P.S is to provide extra information in a way that is easy for the reader to notice and understand. When used thoughtfully, these variations make your messages memorable, engaging, and impactful.
P.S in Modern Digital Communication
Even though P.S originated in handwritten letters, it has found a strong place in modern digital communication. Emails, text messages, and social media posts often use P.S to grab attention, emphasize key points, or add a personal touch after the main message. Unlike traditional letters, digital platforms allow for creative formatting, making P.S more versatile and noticeable.
In email marketing, P.S is widely used to increase engagement. For example, after a professional email, a P.S line can highlight a special offer, deadline, or call-to-action: P.S Sign up today to receive your free guide! This draws the reader’s attention without interrupting the main content, often improving click-through rates and conversions.
On social media or casual messaging apps, P.S can add humor, personality, or emphasize a key thought. For instance: P.S Don’t forget our coffee date ☕ or P.S This is our little secret 🤫. Emojis, line breaks, and playful language make P.S more engaging for digital readers.
Even in professional emails, a well-placed P.S can make your message stand out, highlight essential details, or encourage action. It serves as a final nudge for readers who may skim the content. Understanding how P.S works in digital communication ensures that your messages remain clear, memorable, and effective, bridging the gap between traditional etiquette and modern trends.
Common Misunderstandings About P.S
Despite its widespread use, many people misunderstand or use it incorrectly. One common confusion is mixing it up with other abbreviations. For example, some may see and think of PlayStation, especially in casual online contexts. However, in written communication, always refers to Postscript, meaning an additional note written after the main content.
Another misunderstanding involves placement. Some writers incorrectly insert P.S before the signature or within the main body of a letter or email. Proper usage requires placing it after the signature or closing, so readers immediately recognize it as an extra note or final thought.
Overusing P.S is another common mistake. While multiple or P.P.S lines can be fun in casual messages, in professional or formal communication they may appear cluttered or unprofessional. One well-crafted postscript is usually enough to convey your additional point effectively.
Some also believe is outdated and irrelevant in the digital age. On the contrary, it remains highly effective, particularly in email marketing, social media, and personal communication, where it captures attention and emphasizes key points.
Understanding these common mistakes ensures your usage is clear, professional, and impactful. By avoiding confusion, maintaining proper placement, and using it sparingly, your messages—whether letters, emails, or texts—will communicate extra thoughts effectively without losing clarity or reader engagement.
Examples of P.S in Letters, Emails, and Messages
Seeing how P.S is used in real situations makes it easier to understand its purpose. Here are examples across different contexts:
1. Professional Email Example:
Dear Sarah,
Thank you for attending our webinar. We hope you found it informative and valuable.
Best regards,
John Smith
P.S Don’t forget to download the free resources from the webinar page!
2. Casual Friendly Letter Example:
Hi Emma,
It was so great catching up last weekend! I can’t wait to see you again soon.
Love,
Anna
P.S I still owe you that coffee ☕
3. Marketing Email Example:
Hello Subscriber,
We’re excited to announce our new product launch. Check it out before it sells out!
Cheers,
The Team
P.S Order today and get 20% off with code SPRING20
4. Fun/Funny Text Message Example:
Hey Tom,
Had a blast at the game tonight! Let’s do it again soon.
P.S Bring the snacks next time 🍿
5. Multiple P.S / P.P.S Example:
Dear Friend,
Thanks for your help last week!
Cheers,
Mike
P.S Can’t wait for our trip next month.
P.P.S Don’t forget your camera!
These examples show that can be used professionally, casually, and even humorously. Whether in letters, emails, or messages, it adds extra information, humor, or emphasis, making your communication more engaging and memorable.
FAQs
1. What does P.S stand for?
P.S stands for Postscript, a Latin term post scriptum, meaning “written after.” It is used to add extra information after the main content of a letter, email, or message.
2. Can I use multiple P.S lines?
Yes, you can. The first is P.S, the second is P.P.S (post-postscript). While multiple postscripts can be used in casual messages, it is best to avoid them in formal or professional communication. One clear P.S is usually sufficient.
3. Is P.S formal or informal?
P.S can be used in both formal and informal settings, but the tone and content must match. In professional emails, use it for important reminders or calls-to-action. In casual texts or letters, it can be humorous, personal, or playful.
4. Difference between P.S and P.P.S
P.S is the first postscript, added after the signature. is the second postscript, added if another thought comes to mind after the first.
5. Is P.S still relevant today?
Absolutely. Even in digital communication—emails, texting, and social media is a powerful tool to grab attention, highlight important details, or add a personal touch.
Conclusion
In summary, P.S, which stands for Postscript, is a simple yet powerful tool in communication.
Originating from the Latin phrase post scriptum, it was historically used in handwritten letters to add extra thoughts after signing.
Today, its use extends to emails, text messages, and social media posts, proving that even a centuries old convention remains relevant in the digital age.
Proper use of P.S involves placing it after your signature or main message, keeping it concise, and ensuring it adds value. Variations like P.P.S allow for additional notes, but overuse should be avoided, especially in formal communication.
If used professionally to emphasize important points or casually to add humor or a personal touch enhances clarity, engagement, and memorability.
By understanding its meaning, history, and correct usage, you can make your messages more effective and leave a lasting impression on your readers.
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