hear back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hear back" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are expecting a response from someone else, usually after you have asked them a question or submitted an application of some kind. For example, "I sent an email to the company to request an interview, and I'm anxiously waiting to hear back."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

She didn't hear back.

The New York Times

He did not hear back.

The New York Times - Science

She has yet to hear back.

The New Yorker

Um, I did not hear back".

The New York Times

Do you ever hear back?

The Guardian - Film

I waited to hear back.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Never heard back.

The New York Times - Arts

She never heard back.

The New York Times

Have you heard back?

The New Yorker

(I never heard back).

The New York Times

He never heard back.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing emails, clearly state the action you expect from the recipient and indicate a reasonable timeframe in which you hope to "hear back". This sets expectations and increases the likelihood of a timely response.

Common error

Avoid using "hear back" in situations where a response is not explicitly expected or promised. It's more appropriate when you've requested something or initiated a conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "hear back" functions as a communicative action, specifically indicating the anticipation or receipt of a response. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used when a response is expected after an initial communication. The examples provided by Ludwig highlight its usage in various contexts such as expecting a reply after sending an email or an application.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

14%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hear back" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrasal verb that indicates the expectation or receipt of a response. As Ludwig AI states, it is appropriate in scenarios where a reply is anticipated, such as after sending an email or submitting an application. The phrase is prevalent in news, wiki and also scientific contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for professional and general communication. For alternatives, consider phrases like "receive a response" or "get a reply" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Get a reply

This option is a simpler and more direct way of saying you received a response.

Get an answer

This implies that someone has to give back an answer about something that someone else wants to know.

Receive a response

This alternative uses a more formal tone and emphasizes the act of receiving a response.

Get a word back

This is a slightly more informal and colloquial way of saying "hear back".

Obtain feedback

This implies receiving constructive criticism or opinions.

Receive communication

This is a more formal and general way to say you received some form of message.

Be contacted

This alternative emphasizes the action of being reached out to.

Get news

This implies receiving updates or information about something.

Be informed

This emphasizes the act of being notified or given information.

Get in touch

This phrase focuses more on establishing communication rather than a specific response.

FAQs

What does it mean to "hear back" from someone?

To "hear back" from someone means to receive a response or communication from them, typically after you have contacted them or requested information.

How can I politely ask someone to "hear back" from me?

You can politely ask someone to respond by saying, "Please let me know when you have an update" or "I would appreciate it if you could "get back to me" at your earliest convenience".

What is a more formal alternative to "hear back"?

More formal alternatives include "receive a response", "be contacted", or "obtain feedback", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I'm waiting to "hear back""?

Yes, it is correct. The phrase "waiting to "hear back"" is commonly used to indicate that you are anticipating a response from someone.