Polite Ways to Say ‘I Will Check and Get Back to You’
When someone asks you a question and you don’t have the answer immediately, the most professional and polite response is to say you will check and get back to them. The direct phrase “I will check and get back to you” is clear, but it can feel a bit flat or even dismissive in certain situations. This guide provides a range of polite alternatives that sound more considerate, professional, and helpful, whether you are writing an email or speaking in a meeting.
Quick Answer: The Best Polite Alternatives
If you need a polite way to say “I will check and get back to you” right now, use one of these three options depending on your context:
- For a formal email: “Let me verify this and I will follow up with you shortly.”
- For a casual conversation: “Let me look into that and I’ll let you know.”
- For a workplace setting: “I will confirm the details and get back to you by the end of the day.”
Understanding the Tone: Formal vs. Casual
The phrase “I will check and get back to you” is neutral. However, the word “check” can sometimes sound like a simple, quick task. In professional settings, you may want to use words that show more effort and respect. Below is a comparison of formal and casual alternatives.
Formal Alternatives (Best for Emails to Clients, Managers, or Partners)
- “I will investigate this matter and provide an update.” – Use when the issue is complex or requires research.
- “Allow me to review the details and revert to you.” – Common in British and international business English.
- “I will look into this and ensure you receive a complete answer.” – Shows commitment to thoroughness.
- “Let me confirm the information and follow up accordingly.” – Professional and reassuring.
Casual Alternatives (Best for Colleagues, Friends, or Quick Chats)
- “Let me check and I’ll get back to you.” – Simple and friendly.
- “I’ll find out and let you know.” – Direct and natural.
- “Give me a moment to look it up.” – Good for real-time conversations.
- “I’ll double-check and come back to you.” – Implies careful attention.
Comparison Table: Tone and Context
| Phrase | Tone | Best Context |
|---|---|---|
| I will check and get back to you. | Neutral | General use |
| Let me verify this and follow up. | Formal | Client emails, official requests |
| I’ll look into that and let you know. | Casual | Colleagues, team chats |
| Allow me to review and revert. | Very formal | Legal, finance, or senior management |
| I’ll find out and come back to you. | Casual | Friends, informal workplace |
| I will confirm the details and update you. | Professional | Project updates, deadlines |
Natural Examples in Emails and Conversations
Email Example 1 (Formal)
Subject: Regarding your request for pricing details
Dear Ms. Chen,
Thank you for your inquiry about our bulk pricing options. I need to consult with our sales team to provide accurate figures. Let me verify this and I will follow up with you by tomorrow morning.
Best regards,
James
Email Example 2 (Casual)
Subject: Quick question about the report
Hi Tom,
Thanks for sending that over. I’m not sure about the Q3 numbers off the top of my head. I’ll check and get back to you after I look at the data.
Thanks,
Sarah
Conversation Example (Workplace)
Colleague: “Do you know if the meeting room is free at 3 PM?”
You: “I’m not sure right now. Let me look into that and I’ll let you know in a few minutes.”
Conversation Example (Customer Service)
Customer: “Can you tell me when my order will arrive?”
You: “I understand you want an update. Allow me to check the tracking system and I will provide you with the most accurate information.“
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even native speakers make small errors when using these phrases. Here are the most common mistakes and how to fix them.
Mistake 1: Being too vague
Incorrect: “I’ll check and get back to you.” (No timeline or context)
Correct: “I’ll check the inventory and get back to you within an hour.”
Mistake 2: Using “revert” incorrectly
Incorrect: “I will revert back to you.” (Revert already means “go back”)
Correct: “I will revert to you.” or “I will get back to you.”
Mistake 3: Sounding dismissive
Incorrect: “I’ll check. Bye.” (Too abrupt)
Correct: “Let me check that for you. I’ll get back to you shortly.”
Mistake 4: Forgetting to follow up
If you say you will check and get back to someone, always do it. If you cannot find the answer, still send a message saying you are working on it.
Better Alternatives for Specific Situations
When you need time to research
Use: “I will need to research this further and will provide a comprehensive answer.”
When you are in a meeting
Use: “Let me take note of that and follow up after the meeting.”
When you are unsure about the answer
Use: “I want to make sure I give you the correct information. Let me confirm and get back to you.”
When you promise a quick reply
Use: “I’ll look into this right away and get back to you within the hour.”
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Try to choose the best polite phrase for each situation. Answers are below.
Question 1: You are writing to a client who asked about a contract clause. What is the most professional response?
A) “I’ll check and get back to you.”
B) “Let me review the contract clause and provide you with a detailed explanation.”
C) “I don’t know. Ask someone else.”
Question 2: A coworker asks you a simple question during a quick chat. What is a natural casual response?
A) “I will investigate this matter.”
B) “I’ll find out and let you know.”
C) “Please wait while I conduct research.”
Question 3: You are on a phone call with a customer. Which phrase sounds most reassuring?
A) “Let me check and I’ll call you back.”
B) “I’m not sure.”
C) “I’ll look into it and get back to you shortly.”
Question 4: You need to promise a response by a specific time. Which is best?
A) “I’ll get back to you someday.”
B) “I will confirm the details and update you by 5 PM today.”
C) “I’ll check when I have time.”
Answers: 1-B, 2-B, 3-C, 4-B
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is “I will check and get back to you” rude?
No, it is not rude. It is a neutral and common phrase. However, in very formal or sensitive situations, using a more detailed alternative can sound more respectful and professional.
2. Can I use “revert” in American English?
“Revert” is more common in British and Indian English. In American English, “get back to you” or “follow up” is preferred. If you use “revert,” do not add “back” after it.
3. Should I always give a timeline when I say I will check?
Yes, if possible. Giving a timeline (e.g., “by the end of the day,” “within two hours”) shows respect for the other person’s time and sets clear expectations.
4. What if I forget to get back to someone?
Apologize briefly and provide the information as soon as you remember. For example: “I apologize for the delay. I have the information you requested now.”
Final Tip for Learners
The key to using these phrases naturally is to match your tone to your audience. In a formal email to a manager or client, choose a phrase with words like “verify,” “confirm,” or “review.” In a casual conversation with a teammate, “I’ll check and let you know” is perfectly fine. Practice using one new phrase each day until it feels natural.
For more polite alternatives in everyday situations, explore our Polite Everyday Phrases category. If you need help with professional email writing, visit our Professional Email Alternatives section. For questions about our content, please see our FAQ or contact us.