if we hear back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "if we hear back" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the possibility of receiving a response or feedback from someone after making an inquiry or request. Example: "We will proceed with the project if we hear back from the client by the end of the week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If we hear back from Mr Carter, we'll write a follow-up post.

The Economist

We'll update if we hear back.

TechCrunch

I'll update if we hear back.

TechCrunch

We'll update if we hear back from either.

TechCrunch

We'll update when and if we hear back from Orange.

TechCrunch

We'll update this post if we hear back.

TechCrunch

We'll be sure to update you if we hear back.

TechCrunch

We've contacted Apple and will update if we hear back.

TechCrunch

We'll update this story if we hear back.

TechCrunch

We've asked Amazon to confirm details, and will update if we hear back.

TechCrunch

(We've asked Google for comment on this, and will update the post if we hear back).

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if we hear back" when you've actively sought information or a decision and are awaiting a response. It clearly signals that further action depends on external input.

Common error

Avoid using "if we hear back" when a response is mandatory or already agreed upon. It introduces unnecessary uncertainty. In such cases, use phrases like "when we receive" or "upon confirmation" to reflect the expected nature of the reply.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if we hear back" functions as a conditional clause, setting a condition upon which a subsequent action depends. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of its grammatical correctness and usability. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate the phrase's use in signaling the dependence on an external response.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if we hear back" is a common and grammatically sound conditional phrase that signals a dependency on receiving a response. Ludwig confirms its broad applicability, especially within news and media, where it's frequently used to indicate that further reporting or action hinges on external input. Although generally neutral in tone, it's important to consider the context and audience when choosing alternatives for more formal or academic settings. Avoiding assumptions about guaranteed responses and using the phrase accurately in relevant situations will improve clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if we receive a reply

More formal and direct, focusing on the receipt of a response.

if we get a response

Similar in meaning, but slightly more informal than "receive a reply".

if we are notified

Focuses on the act of being informed, regardless of the form of communication.

should we get feedback

Emphasizes the desire for feedback and frames it as a condition.

if we are contacted

Highlights the action of someone reaching out to make contact.

in the event of a response

A more formal and somewhat less common way of expressing the same idea.

assuming we get a confirmation

Specifically implies waiting for an affirmation or validation.

once we have an answer

Focuses on obtaining a solution or resolution.

pending their reply

Expresses a state of waiting until a reply is received.

subject to a response

Indicates that something is conditional upon getting a response.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "if we hear back" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, consider using alternatives such as "if we receive a reply", "in the event of a response", or "subject to a response".

What does "if we hear back" imply in a business context?

In a business context, "if we hear back" often implies that a proposal, request, or inquiry has been made, and further action is contingent on receiving a response or feedback from the recipient. It sets an expectation for a subsequent communication.

Is it appropriate to use "if we hear back" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "if we hear back" might sound too informal for some academic contexts. Depending on the specific situation, consider using alternatives like "if we receive a response" or "upon receipt of confirmation" to maintain a more professional tone.

Can I use "if we hear back" when I'm the one who needs to follow up?

Yes, you can still use "if we hear back" even if you plan to follow up. It acknowledges the initial expectation of a response from the other party, while also implying that you might need to take further action if that response isn't received promptly. The alternative would be using a more direct phrase like "if we do not hear back".