Formal vs Casual Ways to Say ‘I will check and get back to you’

When you need to tell someone you will look into something and reply later, the phrase “I will check and get back to you” works in many situations. The key difference between formal and casual versions is the level of politeness, the choice of verbs, and the structure of the sentence. In formal settings, you use more complete sentences, softer modals, and professional vocabulary. In casual settings, you can use contractions, shorter phrases, and more direct language. This guide gives you the exact phrases for both tones, with examples and common mistakes to avoid.

Quick Answer: Formal vs Casual

Formal: “I will review the details and follow up with you shortly.”
Casual: “Let me check and get back to you.”

Use the formal version in emails to clients, managers, or people you do not know well. Use the casual version with coworkers you know well, friends, or in quick chat messages.

Comparison Table: Formal vs Casual Versions

Understanding the Tone Difference

Formal Tone

Formal language uses complete words, avoids contractions, and often includes polite softening phrases. You also choose more specific verbs like “review,” “investigate,” “examine,” or “confirm” instead of the general “check.” Formal versions also often include a time frame or a promise to follow up. This shows respect and professionalism.

Example formal email:
“Dear Ms. Chen,
Thank you for sending the contract. I will review the terms and get back to you with my comments by the end of the week. Please let me know if you need anything else in the meantime.
Best regards,
James”

Casual Tone

Casual language uses contractions like “I’ll” and “let me.” The verbs are simpler, such as “check,” “look,” or “see.” The sentence is shorter and more direct. It sounds friendly and relaxed, but still polite enough for most everyday work conversations.

Example casual message:
“Hey Sam,
Got your question about the report. I’ll check and get back to you in a bit. Thanks!”

Natural Examples

Formal Examples

• “I will review the data and revert to you with my findings.”
• “I will look into the matter and follow up once I have more information.”
• “I will examine the proposal and provide my feedback by Friday.”
• “I will confirm the schedule and get back to you shortly.”
• “I will investigate the issue and update you as soon as possible.”

Casual Examples

• “Let me check and get back to you.”
• “I’ll check it out and let you know.”
• “Give me a sec to look it up.”
• “I’ll check and text you later.”
• “Let me see what I can find.”

Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: Mixing formal and casual in the same sentence

Wrong: “I will check and get back to you ASAP.”
Why: “ASAP” is casual, but “I will” is formal. The tone is inconsistent.
Correct formal: “I will check and get back to you as soon as possible.”
Correct casual: “I’ll check and get back to you ASAP.”

Mistake 2: Using “revert” incorrectly

Wrong: “I will revert back to you.”
Why: “Revert” already means to go back. Adding “back” is redundant. Also, “revert” is very formal and not common in American English.
Correct formal: “I will revert to you.” (British English) or “I will get back to you.” (American English)

Mistake 3: Forgetting to give a time frame in formal contexts

Wrong: “I will check and get back to you.” (in a formal email)
Why: It sounds vague. The reader does not know when to expect a reply.
Correct formal: “I will check and get back to you by the end of the day.”

Mistake 4: Using “check” for everything in formal writing

Wrong: “I will check the contract and get back to you.”
Why: “Check” is too simple for a formal document. Use “review” or “examine.”
Correct formal: “I will review the contract and get back to you.”

Better Alternatives for Specific Situations

When you need more time

Formal: “I will need a few days to review this thoroughly. I will get back to you by Wednesday.”
Casual: “This might take me a couple of days. I’ll let you know when I’m done.”

When you are checking with someone else

Formal: “I will consult with my team and revert to you with a consolidated response.”
Casual: “Let me ask around and get back to you.”

When you need to confirm information

Formal: “I will verify the details and confirm by email.”
Casual: “I’ll double-check and text you.”

When you are in a meeting

Formal: “I will look into this and follow up after the meeting.”
Casual: “I’ll check on that and let you know later.”

Mini Practice: Choose the Best Option

Read each situation and choose the best phrase. Answers are below.

Question 1: You are writing an email to a client about a pricing question. Which is best?
A) “I’ll check and get back to you.”
B) “I will review the pricing details and respond by tomorrow.”
C) “Let me see what I can find.”

Question 2: A coworker asks you a quick question about a file during a chat. Which is best?
A) “I will investigate the matter and revert to you.”
B) “Give me a sec to check.”
C) “I will confirm the details and follow up.”

Question 3: You are in a formal meeting and need to answer a question later. Which is best?
A) “I’ll check it out.”
B) “I will look into this and get back to you after the meeting.”
C) “Let me see.”

Question 4: A friend asks if you can meet next week. Which is best?
A) “I will examine my schedule and provide an update.”
B) “Let me check my calendar and text you.”
C) “I will confirm the availability and revert.”

Answers:
1: B (formal email to a client needs a specific verb and time frame)
2: B (casual chat with a coworker)
3: B (formal meeting, polite and clear)
4: B (casual and friendly, appropriate for a friend)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use “I will check and get back to you” in a formal email?

Yes, but it is better to use a more specific verb like “review” or “examine” and add a time frame. “I will review the document and get back to you by Friday” sounds more professional.

2. Is “revert” a good word to use?

“Revert” is common in British and Indian English, but it sounds very formal and is rarely used in American English. If you are writing to an American audience, use “get back to you” or “follow up.”

3. What is the difference between “get back to you” and “follow up”?

“Get back to you” means you will reply after checking. “Follow up” means you will take action after checking, which can include replying or doing something else. Both are fine, but “follow up” sounds slightly more formal.

4. Should I always include a time frame?

In formal writing, yes. It shows respect and helps the other person plan. In casual conversation, it is optional but still helpful. Saying “I’ll check and get back to you in an hour” is clearer than just “I’ll check.”

Final Tip

Choose your phrase based on who you are talking to and the situation. If you are unsure, use a slightly more formal version. It is better to sound too polite than too casual in a professional setting. Practice the examples in this guide, and soon you will naturally choose the right tone.

For more help with polite everyday phrases, visit our Polite Everyday Phrases section. For professional email writing, see our Professional Email Alternatives. To learn more about workplace speaking, check Workplace Speaking Phrases. For more comparisons like this one, go to Formal and Casual Versions. If you have questions, see our FAQ page.