Common Speaking Mistake: ‘revert back’ Explained

If you have ever said or written “revert back” in a workplace email or conversation, you have made a very common English mistake. The direct answer is that “revert back” is redundant. The word “revert” already means to return to a previous state or to go back. Adding “back” is unnecessary and grammatically incorrect in standard English. In professional settings, using “revert back” can make your English sound less polished. This guide will explain exactly why this mistake happens, how to fix it, and what to say instead in emails, meetings, and everyday conversation.

Quick Answer: What Is the Correct Way to Say It?

Use only “revert” without “back.” For example, say “I will revert to you shortly” instead of “I will revert back to you.” However, be careful: “revert” is formal and often used in British and Indian English. In American English, “get back to” is more natural. Choose your phrase based on your audience and context.

Why ‘Revert Back’ Is a Mistake

The word “revert” comes from Latin “revertere,” where “re-” means again and “vertere” means to turn. So “revert” literally means “turn again” or “go back.” Adding “back” creates a double meaning, like saying “return back” or “repeat again.” This is called a redundancy error. Native speakers rarely make this mistake with “revert,” but it is very common among English learners, especially in business communication.

Formal vs. Informal Context

“Revert” is a formal word. You will hear it in legal documents, official emails, and corporate communication, particularly in the UK, India, Singapore, and other Commonwealth countries. In informal conversation or American workplaces, “revert” sounds stiff. Instead, use “get back to,” “reply,” or “respond.”

Email vs. Conversation Context

In emails, “I will revert to you” is acceptable in formal settings. In spoken conversation, it sounds unnatural. Say “I’ll get back to you” or “I’ll follow up.” The key is matching your word choice to the situation.

Comparison Table: ‘Revert’ vs. ‘Revert Back’ vs. Alternatives

Natural Examples

Here are real-life examples showing the mistake and the correction.

• Mistake: “Please revert back to me with your feedback.”
  Correct: “Please revert with your feedback.”
• Mistake: “I will revert back to you after the meeting.”
  Correct: “I will get back to you after the meeting.”
• Mistake: “She reverted back to her old habits.”
  Correct: “She reverted to her old habits.”
• Mistake: “Let me revert back on this question.”
  Correct: “Let me follow up on this question.”

Common Mistakes to Watch For

Learners often make these related errors:

• Using “revert” for “reply”: “Revert” means to go back, not just to answer. Do not say “I reverted to your email.” Say “I replied to your email.”
• Using “revert back” in American English: In the US, “revert” is rare. Use “get back to” or “respond.”
• Confusing “revert” with “reverse”: “Reverse” means to change direction. “Revert” means to return to a previous state.
• Overusing “revert” in casual talk: Even if correct, “revert” sounds too formal for a quick chat. Choose a simpler word.

Better Alternatives: When to Use Each

Here is a quick guide to choosing the right phrase.

When to use “revert”

• You are writing a formal email to a client or senior manager in a British or Indian company.
• You are discussing legal or contractual matters.
• You want to sound professional and precise.

When to use “get back to”

• You are speaking in a meeting or casual conversation.
• You work in an American or international company.
• You want to sound friendly and natural.

When to use “reply” or “respond”

• You are answering an email or message directly.
• You want a neutral, clear word that works everywhere.

When to use “follow up”

• You need to take action after a discussion.
• You are checking on progress or providing additional information.

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

Choose the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. I will _____ to you with the report tomorrow.
   a) revert back
   b) revert
   c) get back
2. Please _____ to my previous email.
   a) revert
   b) reply
   c) revert back
3. After the update, the system _____ to its default settings.
   a) reverted back
   b) reverted
   c) reversed
4. In a casual conversation, which is best? “I’ll _____ to you later.”
   a) revert
   b) revert back
   c) get back

Answers

1. b) revert – “Revert” is correct here. “Revert back” is redundant. “Get back” needs “to” (get back to you).
2. b) reply – “Revert” does not mean “reply.” Use “reply” or “respond.”
3. b) reverted – The system returned to a previous state. “Reverted back” is wrong. “Reversed” means changed direction, not returned.
4. c) get back – In casual conversation, “get back to you” is natural. “Revert” is too formal.

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘Revert Back’

1. Is “revert back” ever correct?

No. In standard English, “revert back” is always redundant. Some dictionaries list it as a common error. Avoid it in all writing and speaking.

2. Why do so many people say “revert back”?

It is a common error among English learners, especially in countries where Indian English is spoken. The phrase has become a habit. Also, some people think “revert” alone is incomplete, so they add “back” for emphasis. This is incorrect.

3. Can I use “revert” in American English?

You can, but it sounds very formal and old-fashioned. Most Americans will understand you, but they will find it unusual. Use “get back to” or “respond” instead.

4. What is the difference between “revert” and “reverse”?

“Revert” means to return to a previous state or condition. “Reverse” means to change to the opposite direction or order. For example, “The software reverted to an older version” (returned). “The car reversed out of the garage” (moved backward). Do not mix them up.

Final Tip for Workplace English

To sound professional and correct, simply drop the word “back” after “revert.” Better yet, choose a more natural alternative like “get back to,” “reply,” or “follow up” depending on your context. If you want to improve your overall speaking and writing, check our Speaking Mistake Fixes category for more common errors. For email-specific corrections, visit Email Phrase Corrections. You can also review our Editorial Policy to understand how we create these guides. If you have questions, see our FAQ or contact us.