General English Level 6 Version 2.1 © 2004 acl Pty Ltd GELEV6 Unit 05 Topic 02.doc Examples 1. I am writing to complain about the service I received at your store. 2. I wish to complain about the washing machine I bought at your store recently. 3. I am writing to complain about your recent price increases. Roger Taylor writes: I visited your office last Thursday, January 23, to pick up a copy of your product catalogue and was very disappointed with the service I received. Firstly, there was no one at the reception desk and I had to ring the bell to get someone's attention. Secondly, when I finally did get your attendant's attention, he was very rude! When we write letters of complaint we give the exact details of the problem. We say what happened. We often use Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly, … and sometimes Finally to order our writing. Roger Taylor writes I demand an explanation of this behaviour from the company as well as a formal apology from the receptionist himself. Also, I would like a copy of the catalogue mailed to me immediately. (Roger Taylor states the action he wants taken. He wants an explanation and an apology. He also wants a copy of the catalogue.) Towards the end of the letter we write clearly what we expect and/ or what action we want taken. We use I would like … or I demand … or I'd greatly appreciate … I demand is stronger and less polite than I would like or I'd (greatly) appreciate. Look I would like an apology. I would (greatly) appreciate your attention to this matter. I demand that this situation be remedied immediately. Examples 1. I would like a written apology and a full refund. 2. I would appreciate a letter from your office about this matter. 3. I demand a full refund. At the end of the letter Roger Taylor signs off by writing Yours sincerely. This is a polite way to end a formal letter. 152