Common Speaking Mistake: ‘revert back’ Explained

If you say “revert back” in conversation or email, you are making a common redundancy error. The word “revert” already means “to return to a previous state or subject.” Adding “back” is unnecessary because the idea of returning is already built into the verb. The correct form is simply “revert.” This guide explains why this mistake happens, how to fix it, and what to say instead in different situations.

Quick Answer

Do not say “revert back.” Say “revert” alone. For example, instead of “I will revert back to you,” say “I will revert to you.” In many everyday contexts, “get back to you” or “reply” sounds more natural. Use “revert” in formal or technical writing, but avoid it in casual conversation unless you are talking about returning to a previous topic or condition.

Why “revert back” is a mistake

The verb “revert” comes from Latin “revertere,” meaning “to turn back.” The prefix “re-” already indicates a return. When you add “back,” you repeat the same idea. This is called a redundancy, similar to saying “return back” or “repeat again.” Native speakers sometimes make this error because they think “revert” needs a direction word, but it does not.

Formal vs. informal context

In formal business emails, “revert” is common in some regions, especially in Indian English and British English. However, even in formal writing, “revert back” is considered incorrect. In American English, “revert” is rarely used to mean “reply.” Instead, people say “get back to you” or “respond.” In casual conversation, “revert” can sound stiff. Use “come back to” or “go back to” when talking about returning to a topic.

Comparison table: “revert” vs. “revert back” vs. alternatives

Natural examples

Here are correct sentences using “revert” and better alternatives in real situations.

• Formal email: “We will revert once the review is complete.” (correct, but “respond” is clearer)
• Better alternative: “We will respond once the review is complete.”
• Conversation: “I need to check with my manager and get back to you.” (natural)
• Technical context: “The system will revert to default settings after the update.” (correct, meaning return to a previous state)
• Meeting: “Let’s revert to the agenda item from earlier.” (correct, meaning go back to)

Common mistakes

Learners often make these errors. Study them to avoid the same problem.

• Mistake: “I will revert back to you soon.”
  Fix: “I will get back to you soon.” or “I will revert to you soon.” (if formal)
• Mistake: “Please revert back with your feedback.”
  Fix: “Please revert with your feedback.” or “Please send your feedback.”
• Mistake: “He reverted back to his old habits.”
  Fix: “He reverted to his old habits.”
• Mistake: “Can you revert back to me by tomorrow?”
  Fix: “Can you get back to me by tomorrow?”

Better alternatives and when to use them

Instead of “revert back,” choose one of these options based on your situation.

For replying to a message

• Get back to: Use in emails, chats, and conversations. It is friendly and professional. Example: “I will get back to you with the details.”
• Reply / Respond: Use in any formal or informal context. Example: “Please reply to my question.”
• Come back to: Use when you need time to think. Example: “Let me come back to you on that.”

For returning to a topic or state

• Return to: Use in discussions. Example: “Let’s return to the budget issue.”
• Go back to: Use in casual conversation. Example: “Can we go back to what you said earlier?”
• Revert (correctly): Use in technical or legal writing. Example: “The license will revert to the original owner.”

Mini practice: 4 questions with answers

Test yourself. Choose the correct option for each sentence.

1. Which sentence is correct?
   A. I will revert back to you after lunch.
   B. I will revert to you after lunch.
   C. I will revert back after lunch to you.
   Answer: B. “Revert” alone is correct. A and C have unnecessary “back.”
2. Fill in the blank: “Please ______ with your comments by Friday.”
   A. revert back
   B. revert
   C. revert back to
   Answer: B. “Revert” is correct in formal writing.
3. Which alternative sounds most natural in a casual email?
   A. I will revert to you.
   B. I will get back to you.
   C. I will revert back to you.
   Answer: B. “Get back to you” is natural and friendly.
4. Correct this sentence: “She reverted back to her original plan.”
   Answer: “She reverted to her original plan.” Remove “back.”

FAQ

1. Is “revert back” ever acceptable?

No. In standard English, “revert back” is always redundant. Some people use it in informal speech, but it is not correct. Avoid it in writing and formal speaking.

2. Can I use “revert” to mean “reply” in American English?

It is uncommon. In American English, “revert” usually means “return to a previous state.” To mean “reply,” use “respond,” “get back to,” or “answer.” In British and Indian English, “revert” is more common for “reply,” but still without “back.”

3. What is the difference between “revert” and “return”?

“Revert” often implies returning to a previous condition, habit, or topic. “Return” is more general and can mean going back to a place, person, or state. Example: “He reverted to his old ways” vs. “He returned to the office.”

4. How do I remember not to say “revert back”?

Think of “revert” as already containing the meaning of “back.” If you would not say “return back,” do not say “revert back.” Practice using “revert” alone or replace it with “get back to” for replies.

Final tip for learners

If you are unsure, avoid “revert” altogether in everyday conversation. Use “get back to” for replies and “return to” for topics. In formal writing, “revert” is fine, but never add “back.” This small change will make your English sound more natural and correct. For more help with common speaking errors, explore our Speaking Mistake Fixes category. You can also check Grammar Accuracy Checks for similar corrections. If you have questions, visit our FAQ or contact us.