What does herewith mean?
Herewith is a formal adverb meaning that something is included with, or accompanies, the current message or document. It is commonly used in business letters, official notices, legal correspondence, and traditional administrative writing to direct attention to an enclosure or accompanying material. For example, “The application form is enclosed herewith” tells the recipient that the form accompanies the letter. Its wording can sound old-fashioned, but it remains precise and appropriate where a traditional professional register is desired. The word is especially useful when the accompanying item should be explicitly identified without adding a separate sentence. Although it is still readily understood by British and American readers, modern email communication usually favors simpler expressions such as “enclosed,” “attached,” or “included.” Herewith is therefore best understood as a concise marker of accompanying material rather than as a general substitute for “with.”
adverbUsed to indicate that something is included with, or accompanies, the message, document, or communication in which it is mentioned.
- With this message, document, or communication; enclosed or accompanying it.
"The annual report is enclosed herewith."
"Please find the signed agreement enclosed herewith."
"The committee's recommendations are submitted herewith for consideration."
It is a one-word signal that something is enclosed in the very message you are reading.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does herewith come from?
Herewith is an English compound formed from here and with. Both elements continue Old English forms: hēr, meaning “here,” and wiþ, the ancestor of with. The compound developed into formal legal and administrative language, where it became a conventional way of referring to material sent or included with a document.
How herewith is actually used
Formal and especially common in business, legal, and administrative correspondence. It sounds increasingly old-fashioned or ceremonious in everyday conversation and is usually unnecessary in casual emails.
Easily confused with herewith
Herewith means that something accompanies the current message or document, whereas hereby means that the statement is made through the document, authority, or act referred to.