Reading Part 1: Reading Correspondence

Used to introduce the subject or topic of a letter or email.

“I am writing regarding your recent application for the position.”

“Regarding your question about the refund policy, please see the details below.”

Often used: regarding your inquiry · regarding the matter · regarding your request

CELPIP tip: Emails in CELPIP Part 1 often use 'regarding' in the subject line or opening sentence — it directly tells you what the correspondence is about and helps you answer the main topic question quickly.

Used as a formal closing in letters and emails to express genuine respect or goodwill.

“Yours sincerely, Maria Gonzalez.”

“She ended the complaint letter sincerely, hoping for a prompt resolution.”

Often used: yours sincerely · sincerely yours · sincerely apologize

CELPIP tip: In CELPIP Part 1, the closing phrase ('sincerely' vs. 'regards' vs. 'cheers') can hint at the register and relationship between writers — formal closings suggest professional or unfamiliar contacts.

To confirm that you have received something or that you are aware of a situation.

“Please acknowledge receipt of this email by replying at your earliest convenience.”

“The manager acknowledged the complaint and promised to investigate the issue.”

Often used: acknowledge receipt · acknowledge a complaint · acknowledge an email

CELPIP tip: In CELPIP Reading Part 1, 'acknowledge' often appears in business emails; it signals the sender is confirming they received or understood something — watch for it in the opening line.

Money paid for a service.

“There is a small fee to renew your card.”

Often used: application fee · waive a fee

CELPIP tip: Collocate precisely: 'application fee' or 'waive the fee' to sound natural in formal emails.

Trouble or difficulty caused to someone, often mentioned in apology letters.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this delay may have caused.”

“The road closure caused great inconvenience to local residents.”

Often used: cause inconvenience · apologize for the inconvenience · any inconvenience

CELPIP tip: The phrase 'we apologize for any inconvenience' is a strong clue that the email is an apology or service-problem notice — identifying this helps you answer tone and purpose questions.

A request for information or a question asked in a formal or business context.

“Thank you for your inquiry about our membership packages.”

“Please direct all inquiries to the customer service department.”

Often used: make an inquiry · respond to an inquiry · handle inquiries

CELPIP tip: When you see 'inquiry' in a CELPIP email, the text is usually responding to a previous question — check the body for the answer to that question as it often forms a comprehension item.

Done quickly and without delay, especially in a professional context.

“We appreciate your prompt response to our request.”

“A prompt reply would be greatly appreciated as the deadline is approaching.”

Often used: prompt reply · prompt action · prompt attention

CELPIP tip: When a letter asks for 'prompt attention' or a 'prompt reply,' urgency is the key tone — CELPIP questions may ask what the writer wants, and 'prompt' signals they need a fast response.

A document or item included with a letter, often noted at the bottom as 'Enc.' or 'Enclosure'.

“Please find the signed contract as an enclosure with this letter.”

“The enclosure includes a copy of your receipt and a return label.”

Often used: please find the enclosure · letter with enclosure · enclosure noted

CELPIP tip: In CELPIP Part 1 formal letters, 'enclosure' or 'Enc.' at the bottom means extra documents are mentioned — a question may ask what was included, so check for this notation carefully.

A solution to a problem or conflict, especially one that satisfies all parties involved.

“We hope to reach a satisfactory resolution to this matter as soon as possible.”

“The customer wrote to request a resolution to the billing error on her account.”

Often used: seek a resolution · reach a resolution · satisfactory resolution

CELPIP tip: Complaint letters and response emails in CELPIP Part 1 frequently use 'resolution' — if the question asks what the writer wants, 'resolution' indicates they are asking for a solution or fix.

A basic home service like water or power.

“Rent includes all utilities.”

Often used: utility bill · pay utilities

CELPIP tip: Formal; use 'utility bills' or 'utility services' in housing/complaint emails to sound precise and professional.

To contact someone again after a previous communication to check on progress or get more information.

“I am writing to follow up on my application submitted two weeks ago.”

“She promised to follow up with the landlord about the broken heating.”

Often used: follow up on an application · follow up with someone · follow-up email

CELPIP tip: Emails that open with 'I am writing to follow up' tell you this is a second or later message in a chain — the purpose is to get a response or update, a common CELPIP question type.

Acting as a representative or in the name of another person or organization.

“I am writing on behalf of the homeowners' association to address your concern.”

“She signed the document on behalf of the CEO during his absence.”

Often used: write on behalf of · speak on behalf of · sign on behalf of

CELPIP tip: When you see 'on behalf of' in a CELPIP email, identify who is actually being represented — the writer and the decision-maker may be different people, which can affect comprehension answers.