Is It Correct to Say ‘Please Revert’?

No, it is not correct to say “please revert” when you mean “please reply” or “please get back to me.” In standard English, the verb revert means to return to a previous state, condition, or topic. Using it as a synonym for “reply” is a common error, especially in business emails influenced by Indian English. This guide explains the correct meaning, shows you when the phrase might actually work, and gives you better alternatives for professional writing.

Quick Answer: What Does ‘Revert’ Actually Mean?

Revert means to go back to an earlier state or practice. For example, a computer system might revert to an older version of a file, or a person might revert to bad habits. It does not mean “to respond” or “to reply.” If you write “please revert” in an email, a native speaker will likely be confused or think you are asking them to return to a previous topic.

The correct phrase for asking someone to respond is “please reply,” “please get back to me,” or “please respond.”

Where Does the ‘Please Revert’ Mistake Come From?

This usage is very common in Indian English, where “revert” has taken on the meaning of “reply” or “respond.” Many professionals in India use it in emails without realizing it is non-standard in other varieties of English. Outside of India, this usage is widely considered incorrect and can make your writing sound unprofessional or confusing. If you are learning English for international business, it is best to avoid this phrase entirely.

Formal vs. Informal Tone: When ‘Revert’ Might Work

There is one situation where “revert” is correct in a formal or technical context: when you are literally talking about returning to a previous state. For example:

• “The system will revert to the default settings after the update.” (Formal/Technical)
• “Let’s revert to the original plan.” (Formal/Business)

In these cases, “revert” is perfectly fine. The mistake happens when you use it to mean “reply.” In informal conversation, you might hear “revert” used this way in certain regions, but it is not recommended for standard English writing or speaking.

Comparison Table: ‘Revert’ vs. Correct Alternatives

Natural Examples: How to Use ‘Revert’ Correctly

Here are examples of “revert” used correctly in natural English:

• “After the trial period, the software will revert to the free version.”
• “He reverted to his old habits after the diet ended.”
• “The discussion reverted to the main topic after the interruption.”
• “Please revert to the previous settings if the new ones cause errors.”

Notice that in every case, “revert” means “go back.” It never means “reply.”

Common Mistakes with ‘Please Revert’

Here are the most frequent errors learners make:

Mistake 1: Using ‘Revert’ to Mean ‘Reply’

Incorrect: “Please revert to my email at your earliest convenience.”
Correct: “Please reply to my email at your earliest convenience.”

Mistake 2: Using ‘Revert Back’

Incorrect: “Please revert back to me with your decision.”
Correct: “Please get back to me with your decision.”

Note: “Revert back” is redundant because “revert” already means “go back.” Avoid this phrase entirely.

Mistake 3: Using ‘Revert’ in a Request for Information

Incorrect: “Kindly revert with the updated report.”
Correct: “Kindly send the updated report.” or “Please respond with the updated report.”

Better Alternatives to ‘Please Revert’

If you want to sound professional and clear, use these phrases instead:

• Please reply – Simple and direct. Works in most formal and informal emails.
• Please respond – Slightly more formal. Good for official requests.
• Please get back to me – Friendly and polite. Best for colleagues or clients you know well.
• I look forward to your response – Polite and professional. Great for closing an email.
• Please let me know – Casual and clear. Works in many situations.

When to Use ‘Revert’ Correctly

Use “revert” only when you mean “return to a previous state.” This is common in:

• Technical documentation (e.g., “Revert to the backup file.”)
• Business discussions about plans (e.g., “Let’s revert to the original strategy.”)
• Personal habits or behavior (e.g., “She reverted to her shy nature.”)

Email Context: How to Avoid the Mistake

In professional emails, clarity is key. Using “please revert” can cause confusion or make you seem less fluent. Here is how to fix common email phrases:

Before (incorrect): “Please revert with your feedback by Friday.”
After (correct): “Please send your feedback by Friday.”

Before (incorrect): “Kindly revert to the above query.”
After (correct): “Kindly respond to the above query.”

Before (incorrect): “Awaiting your revert.”
After (correct): “Awaiting your response.”

Conversation Context: Speaking Naturally

In spoken English, you might hear “revert” used incorrectly in some regions, but it is still best to avoid it. Instead, use natural phrases like:

• “Can you get back to me on that?”
• “Let me know what you think.”
• “I’ll wait for your reply.”

These sound more natural and are understood by all English speakers.

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

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

1. Which sentence is correct?
A. Please revert to my email.
B. Please reply to my email.

2. Which sentence uses ‘revert’ correctly?
A. The system will revert to the default settings.
B. Please revert with your decision.

3. What is the best alternative to ‘please revert back’?
A. Please revert again.
B. Please get back to me.

4. Which phrase is most formal?
A. Please respond.
B. Let me know.

Answers:
1. B
2. A
3. B
4. A

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘Please Revert’

1. Is ‘please revert’ ever correct in business English?

Only if you mean “return to a previous state.” For example, “Please revert to the original design.” It is never correct when you mean “reply.”

2. Why do some people use ‘revert’ to mean ‘reply’?

This usage is common in Indian English, where it has become a standard business term. However, it is not accepted in international standard English and can cause confusion.

3. What should I say instead of ‘please revert’ in an email?

Use “please reply,” “please respond,” or “please get back to me.” These are clear and professional.

4. Is ‘revert back’ correct?

No. “Revert” already means “go back,” so “revert back” is redundant. Avoid it completely.

Final Tip for English Learners

If you are used to writing “please revert” in emails, it may take practice to change the habit. Start by replacing it with “please reply” or “please respond.” Your writing will be clearer, and you will avoid confusing native speakers. For more help with common grammar mistakes, check our Grammar Accuracy Checks section. If you have questions about email phrases, visit our Email Phrase Corrections page.

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