What it actually means
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Surface meaning: A passive-aggressive reference to a prior message the recipient appears to have ignored.
If someone just said “Per My Last Email” in a meeting, here is what they probably meant, what to do about it, and how to keep your sanity.
In the wild
Reply: Per my last email, the deadline is Friday.
(Translation: I have receipts and I will use them.)
How to respond
Use sparingly. Quote the actual line instead: 'On Tuesday at 2pm I wrote...' Specificity is sharper than passive aggression.
Origin
Native to office email since at least the 2000s. Universally recognized for its hostility under the politeness.
FAQ
What does "Per My Last Email" actually mean?
I already answered this. Read.
Where did the phrase "Per My Last Email" come from?
Native to office email since at least the 2000s. Universally recognized for its hostility under the politeness.
How should I respond when someone says "Per My Last Email"?
Use sparingly. Quote the actual line instead: 'On Tuesday at 2pm I wrote...' Specificity is sharper than passive aggression.
Related corporate vocabulary
This was, of course, a meeting that should have been an email.
Run the fake meeting simulator. Generate a bingo card. Be busy without being there.
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