English Question

[druffine]

Told you I'd bother you with stuff from that English course I'm taking these days.
Yesterday we discussed how to write a reference for someone who applies for a job.
We already struggled with the headline.

When do you use "Dear Sir or Madam," and when "To Whom It May Concern"?

My English book says there is no difference.

Thanks in advance for your

Comments

[mirasol]

If I don't know the name of the person to whom I'm writing I would use "Dear Sir or Madam" as "To Whom It May Concern" sounds a little impersonal.

[menomegirl]

I would only use "Dear Sir" or "Dear Madam" if I knew I was addressing a specific person (man or woman). Otherwise, I'd use "To Whom It May Concern".