Better Way to Say ‘revert back’ in English
If you have ever written an email or spoken in a meeting and said “revert back,” you are not alone. However, this phrase is a common redundancy in English. The word “revert” already means to return to a previous state or to go back. Adding “back” is unnecessary. The better way to say it is simply “revert” or, depending on the context, use a more precise verb like “reply,” “respond,” “get back to,” or “return to.” This guide will show you exactly which word to choose for formal emails, casual conversations, and everyday writing.
Quick Answer: What to Say Instead of ‘Revert Back’
Use “revert” alone when talking about returning to a previous condition or topic. Use “reply,” “respond,” or “get back to” when you mean to answer someone. Avoid “revert back” in all situations.
Why ‘Revert Back’ Is a Mistake
The verb “revert” comes from Latin and means “to turn back.” In English, it already contains the idea of returning. Adding “back” creates a double expression, similar to saying “return back” or “repeat again.” Native speakers often catch this as a sign of non-native writing. In professional and academic contexts, removing the extra word makes your English cleaner and more accurate.
Formal vs. Informal Contexts
The correct choice depends on your situation. Here is a quick guide:
- Formal email or business writing: Use “revert” (for returning to a topic or state) or “reply” / “respond” (for answering).
- Casual conversation or chat: Use “get back to” or “reply.”
- Technical or legal writing: “Revert” is standard when discussing systems, settings, or conditions.
Comparison Table: ‘Revert Back’ vs. Better Alternatives
| Phrase | Meaning | Tone | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| revert back | Incorrect redundancy | Avoid | Please revert back to me. |
| revert | Return to a previous state or topic | Formal / neutral | The system will revert to default settings. |
| reply | Answer a message | Formal / neutral | Please reply by Friday. |
| respond | Give a response | Formal | Kindly respond to the inquiry. |
| get back to | Reply later or follow up | Informal | I will get back to you tomorrow. |
| return to | Go back to a topic or place | Neutral | Let us return to the main point. |
Natural Examples
Here are real-life sentences that show the correct usage:
- Email context: “I will revert to the original proposal after the review.” (Correct: return to a previous version)
- Email context: “Please reply to my message by end of day.” (Correct: answer)
- Conversation: “I need to get back to you after I check the schedule.” (Correct: respond later)
- Technical context: “The software will revert to the last saved state.” (Correct: return to a previous condition)
- Meeting context: “Let us revert to the budget discussion.” (Correct: return to a topic)
Common Mistakes
Learners often make these errors. Avoid them:
- Mistake: “Please revert back to me with your decision.”
Fix: “Please reply to me with your decision.” or “Please get back to me with your decision.” - Mistake: “I will revert back to the previous settings.”
Fix: “I will revert to the previous settings.” - Mistake: “Can you revert back on this?”
Fix: “Can you respond to this?” or “Can you get back to me on this?”
Better Alternatives and When to Use Them
1. Use “revert” (without “back”)
Use this when you mean to return to an earlier condition, topic, or state. It is common in formal writing, technical documentation, and legal contexts.
Example: “After the update, the system will revert to factory settings.”
2. Use “reply” or “respond”
Use these when you mean to answer a question or message. “Reply” is slightly less formal than “respond,” but both are safe for professional emails.
Example: “Please reply to the client’s email by noon.”
3. Use “get back to”
Use this in casual or semi-formal situations when you need time to find information before answering.
Example: “I will get back to you after I check the inventory.”
4. Use “return to”
Use this when you want to go back to a previous point in a discussion, document, or physical location.
Example: “Let us return to the agenda item from earlier.”
Mini Practice Section
Choose the best word or phrase to complete each sentence. Answers are below.
- Please ______ to me with your feedback by Monday. (revert back / reply / revert)
- The document will ______ to its original format after the edit. (revert back / revert / get back to)
- I need to ______ to you after I speak with my manager. (revert / reply / get back)
- Let us ______ the main topic after this short break. (revert to / revert back to / reply to)
Answers: 1. reply, 2. revert, 3. get back, 4. revert to
FAQ: Common Questions About ‘Revert Back’
1. Is “revert back” ever correct?
No. In standard English, “revert back” is considered a redundancy. It is best to avoid it in all writing and speaking.
2. Can I use “revert” in an email to mean “reply”?
In some business cultures, especially in Indian English, “revert” is used to mean “reply.” However, this is not standard in American or British English. To be safe, use “reply” or “respond” instead.
3. What is the difference between “revert” and “return”?
“Revert” often implies going back to a previous state, condition, or topic. “Return” is more general and can mean going back to a place, person, or activity. Both are correct, but “revert” is more specific.
4. How do I remember not to say “revert back”?
Think of “revert” as already containing the idea of “back.” If you would not say “return back,” do not say “revert back.” Practice using “revert” alone in sentences about settings, topics, or conditions.
Final Tip for Better English
Choosing the right word shows attention to detail. When you write an email, ask yourself: Am I returning to a previous state? Use “revert.” Am I answering someone? Use “reply” or “respond.” Am I promising to answer later? Use “get back to.” By making this small change, your English will sound more natural and professional. For more help with common corrections, explore our Better English Corrections guides. If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us.