PS meaning in email: PS stands for “postscript,” from the Latin post scriptum, meaning “written after.” In an email, a PS is a short extra note placed after your sign-off and name. It’s used to add a quick reminder, a friendly personal touch or a point you want to stand out.
What does PS mean in a work email?
In handwritten letters, a PS was the only way to add something after you’d signed. In email you can edit anything, so a PS is now a choice, not a necessity.
That’s what makes it useful. A PS draws the eye because it sits apart from the main message. Readers often notice it even when they skim the rest.
At work, a PS is good for:
- A short, friendly personal note
- A reminder that’s related but separate from the main topic
- A gentle nudge about a deadline
- A quick extra resource or link
Examples of PS in emails and messages
Friendly: “Best, Maria — PS: Congrats on the new office! The photos look great.”
Reminder: “Thanks, Daniel — PS: Don’t forget the team lunch is Thursday at noon.”
Sales email: “Regards, Kevin — PS: The early-bird price ends Friday.”
Resource: “Cheers, Aisha — PS: Here’s the onboarding checklist I mentioned.”
Second note: “PPS: The parking code changed, so check the new one on the intranet.”
PS vs PPS vs NB
| Term | Meaning | When to use |
|---|---|---|
| PS | Postscript | One short note after your signature |
| PPS | Post-postscript | A second note after the PS (use rarely) |
| NB | Nota bene, “note well” | Highlighting something important within the text |
How to use PS correctly
- Keep it short. One or two sentences. If it’s longer, it belongs in the main email.
- Don’t hide important information. Deadlines, prices or action items that matter should be in the body too.
- Pick a format and stick with it. “PS,” “P.S.” and “P.S.:” are all fine. American English often uses “P.S.”
- Use it once. A PPS can look disorganized in work emails.
- Match the tone. Friendly notes work with colleagues. In formal or sensitive emails, skip the PS.
When to avoid PS: in legal, HR or disciplinary emails, and in very formal letters where every point should be in the main text.
Related terms
Browse more short forms in our Workplace Acronyms hub.
FAQ
What does PS stand for?
PS stands for postscript, from the Latin post scriptum, meaning written after. It marks a note added after the signature.
Is it professional to use PS in an email?
Yes, in moderation. A short PS can add a friendly touch or reminder. Avoid it in formal, legal or sensitive emails.
Should I write PS or P.S.?
Both are correct. American English often uses P.S., while PS without periods is common in British English and in casual email.
Where does PS go in an email?
A PS goes after your sign-off and name, at the very end of the email.
What does PPS mean?
PPS means post-postscript, a second extra note after a PS. It’s best used rarely in work emails.
