Please note that
Formal business communication expression
Use it to point out important details politely in professional or formal written communication.
In 15 Seconds
- A polite way to highlight important information in writing.
- Commonly used in business emails and official announcements.
- Too stiff for casual conversations with friends or family.
Meaning
This is a polite way to tell someone to pay attention to a specific detail. It acts like a professional highlighter for your sentences.
Key Examples
3 of 6Answering a customer query
Please note that our return policy expires after thirty days.
Please note that our return policy expires after thirty days.
A sign at a local cafe
Please note that we only accept cash on Sundays.
Please note that we only accept cash on Sundays.
Updating a team on a meeting
Please note that the meeting room has changed to Room 4B.
Please note that the meeting room has changed to Room 4B.
Cultural Background
This phrase is a staple of 'Corporate English,' designed to provide information while maintaining professional distance. It reflects the Western business value of clear, documented communication to avoid liability or misunderstanding. In British English, you might see 'Kindly note' more often, which adds a layer of traditional politeness.
The 'That' Rule
You can technically drop the word `that` in casual speech, but in writing, keeping it makes you sound much more polished.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this phrase five times in one email, you'll sound like a broken record. Save it for the most important point.
In 15 Seconds
- A polite way to highlight important information in writing.
- Commonly used in business emails and official announcements.
- Too stiff for casual conversations with friends or family.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as a gentle tap on the shoulder. It tells the reader that the next part is important. It is not a command. It is a polite heads-up. You are making sure they do not miss a key detail. It makes your writing look organized and professional.
How To Use It
You usually put this at the start of a sentence. It is almost always followed by a full fact or instruction. For example, Please note that the office is closed. You can also use it in the middle of a sentence. Just make sure the information following it is clear. It works best when the information is a bit unexpected.
When To Use It
This is your best friend for work emails. Use it when announcing a deadline change. Use it when highlighting a new rule. It is perfect for formal invitations or event details. If you are writing a sign for a shop, this works perfectly. It keeps things clear and respectful. Even a menu might use it for allergy warnings.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this with your best friends. It will make you sound like a robot. Imagine texting your mom Please note that I am hungry. She might think you are joking or being rude! Avoid it in very emotional or casual conversations. It is too cold for a heartfelt apology. Keep it out of your casual group chats.
Cultural Background
English business culture loves to be polite but direct. We want to give orders without sounding like a bossy drill sergeant. This phrase comes from old-fashioned formal letter writing. It has stayed popular because it sounds professional and neutral. It helps avoid confusion in busy workplaces. It is the gold standard for corporate clarity.
Common Variations
You might see Please be advised that for even more formality. If you want to be slightly softer, try Kindly note that. In casual settings, people just say Just so you know. If you are in a rush, FYI (For Your Information) is the short version. Each one changes the 'temperature' of the conversation slightly.
Usage Notes
This phrase is a marker of professional register. While grammatically simple, its power lies in its ability to direct focus without sounding aggressive.
The 'That' Rule
You can technically drop the word `that` in casual speech, but in writing, keeping it makes you sound much more polished.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this phrase five times in one email, you'll sound like a broken record. Save it for the most important point.
The Passive-Aggressive Trap
In the UK and US, using this phrase in a text message to a friend is a secret way of being 'salty' or annoyed. Use with caution!
Examples
6Please note that our return policy expires after thirty days.
Please note that our return policy expires after thirty days.
Sets a clear boundary while remaining helpful.
Please note that we only accept cash on Sundays.
Please note that we only accept cash on Sundays.
Used on signage to prevent customer frustration.
Please note that the meeting room has changed to Room 4B.
Please note that the meeting room has changed to Room 4B.
A classic way to share a logistical update.
Please note that the trash can is actually full, in case you missed it.
Please note that the trash can is actually full, in case you missed it.
The formal tone creates a humorous, passive-aggressive effect.
Please note that this is an adults-only celebration.
Please note that this is an adults-only celebration.
Delivers a potentially sensitive rule with grace.
Please note that your flight has been delayed by two hours.
Please note that your flight has been delayed by two hours.
Softens the blow of bad news with a formal structure.
Test Yourself
Choose the best phrase to complete the formal email sentence.
___ the deadline for applications is tomorrow at noon.
'Please note that' is the only option that fits a formal business context.
Which variation is most appropriate for a very formal legal document?
___ the contract is subject to change.
'Please be advised that' is a more formal version of 'Please note that' used in legal settings.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of Giving Information
Used with friends and family.
Just so you know...
Standard everyday information sharing.
Keep in mind that...
Professional business communication.
Please note that...
Legal or official notices.
Please be advised that...
Where to use 'Please note that'
Work Email
Highlighting a deadline.
Public Sign
Warning about a wet floor.
Event Invite
Mentioning the dress code.
Menu/Catalog
Listing extra fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNot quite. Please note that is for information or facts. Please notice is for physical things you see, like Please notice the painting on the wall.
No, it almost always introduces the information. You would not say The office is closed, please note that.
Only if you are being very formal or slightly sarcastic. For a normal text, use Just a heads up instead.
They are very similar. Please note that is followed by a clause (a mini-sentence), while Please note can be followed by a noun, like Please note the change.
Kindly note is more common in British English. It sounds a bit softer and more polite than the standard version.
No, the word please makes it a request rather than a command. It is considered very polite in a work environment.
Yes, especially during a presentation. It helps the audience know which slide or data point is the most important.
Yes, it is a very common way to start a sentence in professional writing.
In informal notes, you can just write Note: followed by your information. It is quick and efficient.
Usually, no. You go straight into the word that. Example: Please note that... No comma is needed there.
Related Phrases
Please be advised that
A very formal version often used in legal or official government notices.
Keep in mind that
A neutral way to ask someone to remember a specific factor.
For your information
Used to provide context that might be helpful but isn't necessarily urgent.
Just a heads up
A casual, friendly way to give someone a warning or update.
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