Is It Correct to Say ‘revert back’?
No, it is not correct to say “revert back” in standard English. The word “revert” already means “to return to a previous state or condition.” Adding “back” creates a redundancy, similar to saying “return back” or “repeat again.” While you may hear “revert back” in informal conversation or business emails, careful writers and speakers avoid it. The correct form is simply “revert” or, in many contexts, “reply” or “get back to.” This guide will explain why “revert back” is considered a mistake, when you might see it anyway, and what to use instead.
Quick Answer: Should You Use ‘revert back’?
No. Use “revert” alone when you mean “return to a previous state.” Use “reply” or “get back to” when you mean “respond later.” “Revert back” is a common error that can make your writing sound less polished.
Why ‘revert back’ Is Redundant
The prefix “re-” in “revert” already means “again” or “back.” The root “vert” means “to turn.” So “revert” literally means “to turn back.” Adding “back” repeats the idea unnecessarily. This is a classic example of a pleonasm—using more words than needed.
Compare these pairs:
- Correct: “The software will revert to the previous version.”
- Incorrect: “The software will revert back to the previous version.”
- Correct: “Please revert to me by Friday.” (formal, meaning “reply”)
- Incorrect: “Please revert back to me by Friday.”
Comparison Table: ‘revert’ vs. ‘revert back’ vs. Alternatives
| Phrase | Correct? | Meaning | Best Used In |
|---|---|---|---|
| revert | Yes | Return to a previous state or condition | Technical writing, formal contexts, describing changes |
| revert back | No | Redundant; same as “revert” | Avoid entirely |
| reply | Yes | Respond to a message | Emails, everyday conversation |
| get back to | Yes | Respond later or return a call | Informal emails, spoken English |
| return | Yes | Go back or give back | General use, physical objects or places |
When People Use ‘revert back’ (and Why It Still Happens)
Despite being incorrect, “revert back” appears in certain contexts:
- Business emails in some regions: In Indian English, for example, “revert back” is commonly used to mean “reply.” This is a regional variation, but it is not considered standard in international English.
- Informal speech: Some speakers add “back” for emphasis, similar to how people say “repeat again” in casual talk.
- Legal or technical documents: Occasionally, writers use “revert back” to avoid ambiguity, though this is unnecessary.
If you are writing for a global audience, especially in North America, the UK, or Australia, avoid “revert back.” Stick to “revert,” “reply,” or “get back to.”
Natural Examples
Correct Use of ‘revert’ (meaning “return to a previous state”)
- “After the trial period, the subscription will revert to the free plan.”
- “The garden has reverted to a wild state since we stopped maintaining it.”
- “His behavior reverted to old habits after the training ended.”
Correct Alternatives for ‘revert back’ (meaning “respond”)
- “I will reply to your email by tomorrow morning.”
- “Please get back to me when you have the information.”
- “She promised to respond to the proposal by Friday.”
Formal vs. Informal Tone
- Formal email: “Kindly revert at your earliest convenience.” (acceptable in some formal contexts, but “reply” is safer)
- Informal email: “Just get back to me when you can.”
- Conversation: “I’ll call you back later.”
Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Correction | Why |
|---|---|---|
| “Please revert back to me.” | “Please reply to me.” or “Please get back to me.” | “Revert back” is redundant; use a clearer verb. |
| “The system will revert back to default.” | “The system will revert to default.” | “Revert” already means “go back.” |
| “I will revert back on this issue.” | “I will follow up on this issue.” or “I will reply about this issue.” | “Revert” is not a synonym for “follow up.” |
| “He reverted back to his old ways.” | “He reverted to his old ways.” | Same redundancy issue. |
Better Alternatives to ‘revert back’
Choose the right word based on your meaning:
- If you mean “return to a previous state”: Use “revert” (no “back”). Example: “The file will revert to its original format.”
- If you mean “respond to a message”: Use “reply,” “respond,” or “answer.” Example: “Please reply to my email.”
- If you mean “contact someone later”: Use “get back to,” “call back,” or “follow up.” Example: “I’ll get back to you after the meeting.”
- If you mean “go back to a place”: Use “return” or “go back.” Example: “We will return to the office after lunch.”
When to Use ‘revert’ (Correctly)
“Revert” is a precise word. Use it when something goes back to an earlier condition, especially in technical, legal, or formal writing. It is less common in everyday conversation.
Examples of correct “revert” usage:
- “If you do not renew, your account will revert to the basic tier.”
- “The property reverted to the original owner after the lease expired.”
- “After the update, the settings reverted to their defaults.”
In email contexts, “revert” is sometimes used as a formal synonym for “reply,” especially in British and Indian English. However, many style guides recommend using “reply” or “respond” instead, as “revert” can sound outdated or overly formal.
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Choose the correct option for each sentence.
1. The document will _____ to its previous version if you don’t save changes.
a) revert back
b) revert
c) revert back again
Answer: b) revert
2. Please _____ to me with your decision by Monday.
a) revert back
b) revert
c) reply
Answer: c) reply (or “respond”; “revert” is possible but less natural)
3. After the promotion ended, the price _____ to the original amount.
a) reverted back
b) reverted
c) reverted back again
Answer: b) reverted
4. “I’ll _____ to you later” is a natural way to say you will respond later.
a) revert back
b) revert
c) get back
Answer: c) get back (or “get back to”)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is “revert back” ever acceptable in professional writing?
No, it is not considered correct in standard professional English. Some regional varieties, particularly Indian English, use “revert back” to mean “reply,” but this is not accepted in international business writing. To be safe, use “reply” or “respond” instead.
2. What is the difference between “revert” and “reply”?
“Revert” means to return to a previous state or condition. “Reply” means to answer or respond to someone. They are not interchangeable. Using “revert” when you mean “reply” can confuse readers.
3. Can I use “revert” in an email?
Yes, but only if you mean “return to a previous state.” For example: “The settings will revert to default after the update.” If you mean “respond,” use “reply” or “get back to.”
4. Why do some people say “revert back” if it’s wrong?
Language habits vary by region and exposure. In some countries, “revert back” has become a common phrase in business communication, especially in emails. However, it remains a redundancy in standard English. Learning the correct form will help you communicate more clearly with a global audience.
Final Tip
When you catch yourself writing “revert back,” stop and ask: Do I mean “return to a previous state” or “respond”? If the first, use “revert.” If the second, use “reply,” “respond,” or “get back to.” This simple check will instantly improve your writing accuracy.
For more help with common grammar questions, explore our Grammar Accuracy Checks section. If you have a specific phrase you’d like us to explain, feel free to contact us. You can also read our Editorial Policy to understand how we create these guides.
