Use of the word 'revert'

[bensonfungenglish]

Hi teacher,

I recently discover that people usually likes using 'revert to you' instead of using 'reply to you' in the email. But I can't find any explanation that revert is equivalent to reply.
Can any teacher teach me whether I can use 'revert to somebody' instead of 'reply to somebody'?

Please help

Benson

[tedtmc]

'Revert' is usually used when we talk about returning to a former state/condition/habit/topic of discussion' or in legal language/contract, etc. eg. property revert to the state., etc.
Thus, I am doubtful that 'revert to you' is correct English. Yes, I've seen it used quite often in this part of the world.
I would prefer 'get back to you' or 'reply to you'.

not a teacher

[bensonfungenglish]

Hi,

Thanks for your reply. Do you think it might be the American slang usage? I really know nothing about that. If you know, please kindly let me know. I am debating with my wife for this topic.

Benson

[Barb_D]

It is absolutely, 100% NOT American. The first time I saw this use, I questioned what it meant. It seems specific to Malaysian English, from what I've read.

[tedtmc]

It seems specific to Malaysian English, from what I've read.

Barb
Note that Bensonfung is from Hong Kong, not Malaysia. And what have you read about Malaysian English (Manglish) other than from the posts by Malaysians in the forum?

[Barb_D]

Ah, I didn't notice that. However, I have seen discussions on "revert" on two other ESL forums, and in both cases the original poster was from Malaysia.

I've never heard "Manglish" before but one of my online friends is from Malaysia and her use of standard English is superior to most of the native speakers who come to chat rooms.