Better Way to Say ‘revert back’ in English

If you have ever written an email saying “I will revert back to you,” you have used a phrase that many English speakers consider redundant. The word “revert” already means to return to a previous state or to go back. Adding “back” creates a double meaning that careful writers avoid. The better way to say “revert back” is simply “revert” when you mean to return to a subject later, or to use a clearer alternative such as “get back to,” “reply,” or “respond.” This guide explains exactly which word to choose in emails, conversations, and formal writing so you sound natural and correct every time.

Quick Answer: What to Use Instead of ‘Revert Back’

Use one of these alternatives depending on your situation:

• Reply – for most emails and messages
• Get back to – for informal conversation and friendly emails
• Respond – for formal or professional writing
• Revert (without “back”) – only when you mean to return to a previous topic or state

In short, avoid “revert back” entirely. It is not grammatically wrong in every context, but it sounds awkward to native speakers and is flagged as a common mistake in business English guides.

Why ‘Revert Back’ Is Problematic

The verb “revert” comes from Latin revertere, meaning “to turn back.” The “back” meaning is already inside the word. Adding “back” is like saying “return back” or “repeat again.” While some dictionaries accept “revert back” in informal use, most style guides recommend dropping the extra word.

In professional settings, using “revert back” can make you sound less fluent. Many native speakers notice the redundancy immediately. For learners of English, it is safer to use a clean, direct alternative.

Formal vs. Informal Contexts

In formal writing (business reports, official emails, academic work), avoid “revert back” completely. Use “respond” or “reply.” In informal conversation, “get back to” sounds natural. For example:

• Formal: “I will respond to your inquiry by Friday.”
• Informal: “I’ll get back to you after lunch.”
• Avoid: “I will revert back to you shortly.”

Comparison Table: ‘Revert Back’ vs. Better Alternatives

Natural Examples

Here are real-life sentences that show the correct usage:

• Email to a colleague: “I will reply to your questions after the meeting.”
• Customer service: “We will respond to your request within one business day.”
• Casual chat: “Let me check and get back to you.”
• Formal report: “We now revert to the main discussion point.”
• Team message: “Please revert to the previous version of the document.” (correct use of “revert” alone)

Common Mistakes

Watch out for these errors:

• Mistake: “I will revert back to you soon.”
  Fix: “I will get back to you soon.” or “I will reply soon.”
• Mistake: “Please revert back with your feedback.”
  Fix: “Please reply with your feedback.” or “Please respond with your feedback.”
• Mistake: “He reverted back to the old system.”
  Fix: “He reverted to the old system.”
• Mistake: “Revert back to me when you have the data.”
  Fix: “Get back to me when you have the data.”

Better Alternatives: When to Use Each

Use ‘Reply’ for Most Emails

“Reply” is the safest and most common word for answering an email or message. It works in both formal and informal settings. Example: “Please reply to this email with your availability.”

Use ‘Get Back To’ for Friendly or Quick Responses

This phrase is perfect for everyday conversation and casual emails. It implies you will answer later after checking something. Example: “I need to ask my manager, then I’ll get back to you.”

Use ‘Respond’ for Formal or Official Communication

“Respond” sounds more professional and is often used in customer service, legal, or business contexts. Example: “We kindly ask you to respond within seven days.”

Use ‘Revert’ (Without ‘Back’) for Returning to a Topic or State

This is the only correct use of “revert.” It means to go back to a previous condition or subject. Example: “After the test, the system reverted to its default settings.”

Mini Practice: Choose the Correct Phrase

Fill in the blanks with the best word or phrase from this list: reply, get back to, respond, revert (without back). Answers are below.

1. I will __________ you after I check the schedule. (informal email)
2. Please __________ to the original settings if the update fails.
3. We will __________ to your complaint within 48 hours. (formal)
4. Can you __________ to my message by noon?

Answers:

1. get back to
2. revert
3. respond
4. reply

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘Revert Back’

1. Is ‘revert back’ ever correct?

Some dictionaries list “revert back” as acceptable in informal English, but most style guides advise against it. In professional writing, it is better to avoid it entirely. Use “revert” alone or choose a clearer alternative.

2. Why do some people say ‘revert back’?

This phrase is common in Indian English and some other regional varieties. It may have come from legal or business jargon. However, in standard international English, it is considered redundant.

3. Can I use ‘revert’ in an email?

Yes, but only when you mean to return to a previous topic. For example: “Let us revert to the budget discussion.” Do not use “revert” to mean “reply.”

4. What is the best word for a professional email?

Use “respond” for formal emails and “reply” for neutral ones. “Get back to” is fine for internal or casual emails. Avoid “revert back” in all professional writing.

Final Tip for Better English

When you are unsure which word to use, think about the action you want the reader to take. If you want an answer, say “reply” or “respond.” If you need time to check something, say “get back to.” If you are returning to a previous point, say “revert” alone. This simple rule will help you avoid the “revert back” mistake and make your English sound more natural.

For more help with common English corrections, visit our Better English Corrections section. You can also check our FAQ page for answers to other language questions. If you have a specific phrase you would like us to explain, feel free to contact us.