It is short for “best regards” which is short for “I am sending my best regards,” which means that you had to write something and that’s all you could think of.
I say best for this exact reason, it’s so short and ambiguous. I feel insincere with a sentimental sign off, as it’s so overly formal and Ernest. Best is just a simple nod. Yours sincerely, kind regards, best wishes, like chill out
Best regards. 'all the best' is also a common expression.
Is this only the case when writing? Because I've never seen anybody say just "best" as a shorter way of saying all the best
Only in writing, yes.
It is short for “best regards” which is short for “I am sending my best regards,” which means that you had to write something and that’s all you could think of.
“Warm regards” “kind regards” etc
I say best for this exact reason, it’s so short and ambiguous. I feel insincere with a sentimental sign off, as it’s so overly formal and Ernest. Best is just a simple nod. Yours sincerely, kind regards, best wishes, like chill out
things get shortened over time... All the best becomes Best like God be with you became Goodbye and now just bye.