Is It Correct to Say ‘Please Revert’?
No, it is not correct to use the phrase “please revert” in standard English when you mean “please reply” or “please get back to me.” The verb “revert” means to return to a previous state, condition, or subject. While this usage is common in Indian English and some other business contexts, it is considered a mistake in international English, especially in professional communication with native speakers. This guide explains the correct meaning of “revert,” why the phrase causes confusion, and what to say instead.
Quick Answer: What Does ‘Please Revert’ Actually Mean?
“Revert” means to go back to an earlier condition, topic, or practice. For example, “The software will revert to its default settings” or “Let’s revert to the original plan.” When you say “please revert,” you are asking someone to go back to something, not to respond to your message. The correct phrase for asking for a response is “please reply,” “please get back to me,” or “please respond.”
Why This Mistake Happens
In Indian English, “revert” has been used for decades as a synonym for “reply” or “respond.” This usage is widely accepted in India, but it is not standard in American, British, Australian, or Canadian English. If you use “please revert” in an email to a colleague in London or New York, they may be confused or think you made an error. Understanding this difference helps you choose the right word for your audience.
Formal vs. Informal Tone
“Please revert” is often used in formal business emails in Indian English, but it is not formal in international English. In standard English, “revert” sounds technical or legal, not polite. For formal requests, use “please respond at your earliest convenience” or “I look forward to your reply.” For informal situations, “let me know” or “get back to me” works well.
Comparison Table: ‘Revert’ vs. Correct Alternatives
| Phrase | Meaning | Correct Usage | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Please revert | Return to a previous state | No (for reply) | Indian English only |
| Please reply | Give an answer | Yes | Formal and informal |
| Please get back to me | Respond later | Yes | Semi-formal |
| Please respond | Answer or react | Yes | Formal |
| Please revert back | Return to a previous state | No (redundant) | Always incorrect |
Natural Examples of Correct Usage
Here are examples showing how to use “revert” correctly and how to replace it with better alternatives.
Correct Use of ‘Revert’
- “After the update, the system will revert to its original configuration.” (Return to a previous state)
- “Let’s revert to the topic we discussed earlier.” (Go back to a previous subject)
- “The company decided to revert to the old pricing model.” (Return to an earlier condition)
Incorrect Use of ‘Revert’ (Meaning ‘Reply’)
- Incorrect: “Please revert with your feedback.”
- Correct: “Please reply with your feedback.”
- Incorrect: “Kindly revert on the proposal.”
- Correct: “Kindly respond to the proposal.”
- Incorrect: “Awaiting your revert.”
- Correct: “Awaiting your reply.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learners often make these errors with “revert.” Here is how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Using ‘Revert’ as a Noun
Some people write “awaiting your revert” as a noun. This is incorrect in standard English. “Revert” is a verb, not a noun. Use “reply” or “response” instead.
Incorrect: “I am waiting for your revert.”
Correct: “I am waiting for your reply.”
Mistake 2: Adding ‘Back’ to ‘Revert’
“Revert back” is redundant because “revert” already means to go back. Avoid this phrase entirely.
Incorrect: “Please revert back to me.”
Correct: “Please get back to me.”
Mistake 3: Using ‘Revert’ in International Emails
If you work with people from different countries, avoid “revert” for “reply.” It can cause confusion or make you seem less fluent.
Incorrect: “Please revert on the schedule.”
Correct: “Please confirm the schedule.”
Better Alternatives for ‘Please Revert’
Choose the right phrase based on your tone and situation.
Formal Alternatives
- “Please respond at your earliest convenience.”
- “I look forward to your reply.”
- “Kindly provide your feedback.”
- “Please advise on the next steps.”
Semi-Formal Alternatives
- “Please get back to me when you have a moment.”
- “Let me know your thoughts.”
- “Could you reply by Friday?”
Informal Alternatives
- “Just let me know.”
- “Hit me back when you can.”
- “Send me your answer when you’re ready.”
When to Use ‘Revert’ Correctly
Use “revert” only when you mean returning to a previous state, topic, or condition. It is common in technical, legal, and academic writing. For example:
- “The contract will revert to the original terms if not renewed.”
- “After the trial, the settings revert to default.”
- “Let’s revert to the main agenda.”
If you are unsure, replace “revert” with “return” or “go back.” This will always be correct.
Mini Practice: Choose the Correct Phrase
Test your understanding. Choose the best option for each sentence.
Question 1
“Please _____ with your comments on the report.”
A) revert
B) reply
C) revert back
Answer: B) reply
Question 2
“The software will _____ to the previous version after the update.”
A) revert
B) respond
C) get back
Answer: A) revert
Question 3
“I am waiting for your _____ on the project proposal.”
A) revert
B) revert back
C) response
Answer: C) response
Question 4
“Let’s _____ to the original plan.”
A) reply
B) revert
C) respond
Answer: B) revert
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is ‘please revert’ ever correct in English?
Yes, but only if you mean “return to a previous state.” For example, “Please revert to the default settings.” It is never correct when you mean “please reply.”
2. Why do some people say ‘please revert’ in emails?
This usage is common in Indian English and some other varieties of English. It has become a standard business phrase in those regions, but it is not accepted in international English.
3. What should I say instead of ‘please revert’?
Use “please reply,” “please respond,” or “please get back to me.” For a more formal tone, try “I look forward to your response.”
4. Is ‘revert back’ correct?
No. “Revert back” is redundant because “revert” already means to go back. Avoid this phrase in all contexts.
Final Tip for English Learners
When writing emails or speaking in professional settings, stick with “reply” or “respond” instead of “revert.” This small change will make your English sound more natural and avoid confusion. If you hear someone else use “revert” incorrectly, you now know how to explain the difference politely. For more help with common grammar mistakes, visit our Grammar Accuracy Checks section. If you have questions about email phrases, check our Email Phrase Corrections guide. For everyday speaking fixes, see Speaking Mistake Fixes. And for broader corrections, explore Better English Corrections. Need more help? Visit our FAQ page.
