Polite Ways to Say ‘I will check and get back to you’

When someone asks you a question you cannot answer immediately, the most professional and polite response is to acknowledge their request, promise to verify the information, and commit to a follow-up. The direct phrase “I will check and get back to you” is clear, but it can sound a bit flat or impersonal in certain situations. This guide gives you practical, polite alternatives for emails, workplace conversations, and everyday life, so you always sound helpful and reliable.

Quick Answer: The Most Polite Version

If you need one safe, professional phrase that works in almost any situation, use: “Let me look into that and I will follow up with you.” This is polite because it uses “let me” (offering help), “look into” (sounds thorough), and “follow up” (shows commitment). It works for emails, phone calls, and face-to-face conversations.

Why the Original Phrase Can Sound Weak

The phrase “I will check and get back to you” is grammatically correct and widely understood. However, it can feel a little robotic or vague. The word “check” is very general, and “get back to you” does not specify when or how. In professional settings, people appreciate more clarity and a warmer tone. The alternatives below help you sound more confident, considerate, and organized.

Polite Alternatives for Different Situations

For Professional Emails

In email, you have space to be more detailed. The key is to show that you are taking action and to set expectations.

• “I will verify this and update you by [time/day].” – This is direct and gives a clear timeline.
• “Let me confirm the details and I will send you a response shortly.” – “Confirm” sounds more thorough than “check.”
• “I need to review the information first. I will get back to you as soon as I have an answer.” – Honest and polite, especially if you need time.

For Workplace Conversations (In Person or on the Phone)

When speaking, your tone and word choice matter. Use phrases that sound natural and cooperative.

• “Let me look that up for you.” – Friendly and immediate.
• “I will find out and come back to you.” – Simple and clear.
• “Give me a moment to check, and I will let you know.” – Polite and shows you are ready to help.

For Formal or Customer Service Contexts

When the situation is more serious or you are dealing with a client, use more formal language.

• “I will investigate this matter and provide you with an update.” – Very professional.
• “Please allow me some time to look into this. I will revert to you with the details.” – “Revert” is common in formal business English.
• “I will ensure this is reviewed and get back to you with a complete answer.” – Shows responsibility.

Comparison Table: Formal vs. Casual Versions

Natural Examples

Here are real-life dialogues showing how to use these phrases naturally.

Example 1: Email to a manager
“Thank you for your question about the quarterly report. I will verify the numbers and update you by the end of the day.”

Example 2: Phone call with a customer
Customer: “Can you tell me if my order has shipped?”
You: “I understand. Let me look that up for you. I will find out and call you back within the hour.”

Example 3: Chat with a coworker
Coworker: “Do you know when the meeting is rescheduled?”
You: “Not yet. Let me check the calendar and I will let you know.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even polite phrases can sound rude if you make these errors.

• Mistake: “I will check and get back to you” without any timeline. – This can feel vague. Solution: Add a time reference like “soon,” “by tomorrow,” or “within an hour.”
• Mistake: Using “I will revert” in casual conversation. – “Revert” is very formal and can sound strange with friends. Use “get back to” or “let you know” instead.
• Mistake: Saying “I will check” but never following up. – The phrase itself is polite, but failing to act damages trust. Always follow through.
• Mistake: Using “I will check” when you already know the answer. – If you can answer immediately, do so. Saying you will check when you already know can seem dishonest.

Better Alternatives and When to Use Them

Here is a quick guide to choosing the best phrase for your situation.

• “Let me look into that” – Use when you need to do some research. It sounds proactive.
• “I will confirm and update you” – Use when you are fairly sure of the answer but need to double-check.
• “I will find out and come back to you” – Use in spoken conversation. It is friendly and clear.
• “I will investigate and provide an update” – Use in formal or serious situations, like a complaint or a technical issue.
• “Give me a moment to check” – Use when you can answer quickly, like checking a calendar or a file.

Mini Practice Section

Test yourself. Choose the best polite phrase for each situation.

Question 1: A client emails you asking for a price list. You need to check with your manager first. What do you reply?
A) “I will check and get back to you.”
B) “Let me confirm with my manager and I will send you the price list by tomorrow.”
C) “I don’t know.”

Answer: B. It is polite, specific, and sets a clear expectation.

Question 2: A colleague asks you a quick question during a meeting. You can find the answer in your notes. What do you say?
A) “I will investigate this matter and revert.”
B) “Give me a moment to check my notes.”
C) “I’ll get back to you later.”

Answer: B. It is polite and shows you are ready to help immediately.

Question 3: You are on the phone with a customer who is upset. You need to check their account. What is the best response?
A) “I will look into this and call you back within 30 minutes.”
B) “I will check and get back to you.”
C) “Let me see.”

Answer: A. It is polite, shows empathy, and gives a specific time frame.

Question 4: A friend asks if you are free this weekend. You need to check your schedule. What do you say?
A) “I will investigate my calendar and revert.”
B) “Let me check my schedule and I will let you know.”
C) “I don’t know.”

Answer: B. It is natural and polite for a casual conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is “I will revert to you” correct English?

Yes, “revert” is used in formal business English, especially in Indian and British contexts. However, it is less common in American English. If you are unsure, use “get back to you” or “follow up.”

2. Should I always give a timeline when I say I will check?

It is highly recommended. Adding a timeline like “by the end of the day” or “within an hour” shows respect for the other person’s time and reduces their anxiety.

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

Yes, it is acceptable, but it is better to make it more specific. For example: “I will check the records and get back to you with the details by Friday.”

4. What if I forget to follow up?

If you forget, apologize sincerely and provide the information as soon as you remember. For example: “I apologize for the delay. I have the information now and here it is.”

For more everyday polite phrases, visit our Polite Everyday Phrases section. If you have questions about this guide, please see our FAQ page or contact us. We also have guides for Professional Email Alternatives and Workplace Speaking Phrases to help you communicate with confidence.