Beyond “I’ll Let You Know”: Diverse Ways to Inform

Mastering English involves more than just knowing the basic phrases. It’s about expanding your vocabulary and understanding the nuances of different expressions.

One common phrase, “I’ll let you know,” is often used to indicate that you will provide information at a later time. However, relying solely on this phrase can make your communication sound repetitive and less engaging.

This article explores a variety of alternative ways to express the same idea, enriching your English and making your conversations more dynamic. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone looking to improve their communication skills, this guide will provide you with the tools to express yourself more effectively.

Learning these alternatives not only enhances your vocabulary but also allows you to tailor your response to the specific context. This increased precision can improve clarity and foster better understanding in both formal and informal settings.

From subtle variations in tone to completely different phrases with the same core meaning, you’ll discover how to communicate your intentions more eloquently and professionally.

Definition and Core Meaning
Structural Breakdown of Similar Phrases
Types and Categories of Alternatives
Examples
Usage Rules
Common Mistakes
Practice Exercises
Advanced Topics
FAQ
Conclusion

Definition and Core Meaning

The phrase “I’ll let you know” is a common expression used to indicate that you will provide someone with information at a future time. It implies that you are currently unable to give the information but will do so as soon as you have it or have made a decision. The core meaning revolves around deferred communication. Essentially, you’re promising to follow up with the person at a later point.

This phrase is versatile and can be used in a variety of contexts, from casual conversations to more formal business settings. However, its simplicity can sometimes make it sound vague or even noncommittal.

That’s why it’s helpful to have a range of alternative phrases at your disposal. Understanding the nuances of these alternatives allows you to communicate more precisely and effectively.

The phrase typically consists of three main components: the pronoun “I,” the auxiliary verb “will” (contracted to “I’ll”), and the verb phrase “let you know.” The verb “let” in this context means “to allow” or “to permit,” while “know” refers to having information. Therefore, “I’ll let you know” literally translates to “I will allow you to have the information.”

Structural Breakdown of Similar Phrases

Many phrases that convey the same meaning as “I’ll let you know” share similar structural elements. They often include a subject (usually “I”), a future tense indicator (such as “will” or “am going to”), and a verb phrase that describes the act of providing information.

Understanding these structural similarities can help you create your own variations and adapt your language to different situations.

Let’s break down some common structural patterns:

Subject + Future Tense + Verb Phrase + Object (if applicable)
Example: I will inform you.
Subject + Future Tense + “Keep” + Object + Adjective/Adverb
Example: I will keep you updated.
Subject + Future Tense + Verb of Communication + Object + Prepositional Phrase (if applicable)
Example: I will contact you with the details.

By recognizing these patterns, you can see how different words and phrases can be substituted to create variations on the same theme. For instance, instead of “inform,” you could use “notify,” “advise,” or “update.” Similarly, instead of “you,” you could specify a particular person or group.

Consider the following table, which illustrates the structural variations with different example phrases:

Structural Pattern	Example Phrase	Explanation
Subject + Future Tense + Verb Phrase + Object	I will tell you.	Simple and direct; “tell” is the verb phrase, and “you” is the object.
Subject + Future Tense + “Keep” + Object + Adjective/Adverb	I will keep you posted.	“Posted” functions as an adjective describing the state of “you” being informed.
Subject + Future Tense + Verb of Communication + Object + Prepositional Phrase	I will email you with the results.	“Email” is the verb of communication, “you” is the object, and “with the results” is the prepositional phrase providing context.
Subject + Future Tense + “Get” + Object + Information	I’ll get back to you.	“Get back” is an idiomatic expression, referring to making contact again.
Subject + Modal Verb + Verb Phrase + Object	I should know soon.	“Should” indicates probability or expectation of knowing something in the near future.

Types and Categories of Alternatives

The alternatives to “I’ll let you know” can be categorized based on several factors, including formality, specificity of timeframe, and the degree of certainty or uncertainty conveyed. Understanding these categories will help you choose the most appropriate phrase for any given situation.

Formal Alternatives

In professional or academic settings, it’s often necessary to use more formal language. These alternatives convey respect and professionalism.

Formal alternatives are suitable for emails, presentations, and interactions with superiors or clients.

Examples of formal alternatives include:

I will inform you.
I will notify you.
I will advise you.
I will update you.
I shall inform you. (Less common in modern English, but still grammatically correct)
I will communicate the information to you.

Informal Alternatives

Informal alternatives are appropriate for casual conversations with friends, family, or colleagues you’re close to. These phrases are more relaxed and conversational.

Examples of informal alternatives include:

I’ll get back to you.
I’ll keep you posted.
I’ll give you a shout.
I’ll hit you up. (Very informal, use with caution)
I’ll holler at you. (Similar to “hit you up,” even more informal)
I’ll be in touch.

Alternatives with a Specific Timeframe

Sometimes, it’s helpful to provide a specific timeframe for when you will provide the information. This adds clarity and sets expectations.

Examples of alternatives with a specific timeframe include:

I’ll let you know by tomorrow.
I’ll get back to you by the end of the week.
I’ll update you on Monday.
I’ll have an answer for you within 24 hours.
I’ll inform you as soon as possible.
I’ll provide you with an update shortly.

Alternatives Emphasizing Certainty

These phrases convey confidence that you will provide the information as promised. They are useful when you want to reassure the other person that you are reliable.

Examples of alternatives emphasizing certainty include:

You can be sure I’ll let you know.
I will definitely let you know.
I will absolutely let you know.
I guarantee I’ll let you know.
Rest assured, I’ll let you know.
I will make sure to let you know.

Alternatives Emphasizing Uncertainty

Conversely, sometimes you need to acknowledge that you may not be able to provide the information or that there may be delays. These phrases convey honesty and manage expectations.

Examples of alternatives emphasizing uncertainty include:

I’ll try to let you know.
I’ll let you know if I can.
I’ll let you know if anything changes.
I’ll let you know as soon as I’m able.
I’ll do my best to let you know.
I’ll see what I can find out and let you know.

Examples

To further illustrate the different categories of alternatives, let’s look at some specific examples in context.

Formal Examples

The following table provides formal alternatives to “I’ll let you know,” along with example sentences demonstrating their usage.

Alternative Phrase	Example Sentence
I will inform you.	“Following the board meeting, I will inform you of the decision regarding the budget.”
I will notify you.	“Once the contract is finalized, I will notify you immediately.”
I will advise you.	“I will advise you on the best course of action after reviewing the data.”
I will update you.	“I will update you on the project’s progress during our weekly meeting.”
I shall inform you.	“I shall inform you of any changes to the schedule as soon as they are confirmed.”
I will communicate the information to you.	“I will communicate the information to you via email by the end of the day.”
The information will be communicated to you.	“The information will be communicated to you once the investigation is complete.”
You will be notified shortly.	“You will be notified shortly regarding the status of your application.”
I will be in contact with you.	“I will be in contact with you in regards to your request.”
I will provide you with the details.	“I will provide you with the details as soon as they are available.”
I will furnish you with the information.	“I will furnish you with the information upon request.”
I will keep you apprised.	“I will keep you apprised of any new developments.”
I will keep you abreast.	“I will keep you abreast of the situation as it unfolds.”
The report will be sent to you.	“The report will be sent to you once it has been finalized and approved.”
You will receive the information shortly.	“You will receive the information shortly after the meeting concludes.”
I will ensure you are informed.	“I will ensure you are informed of all relevant updates.”
I will make certain you are aware.	“I will make certain you are aware of any potential risks.”
I will bring it to your attention.	“I will bring it to your attention as soon as possible.”
I will make the information available to you.	“I will make the information available to you upon request.”
I will forward the information to you.	“I will forward the information to you as soon as I receive it.”

Informal Examples

The following table provides informal alternatives to “I’ll let you know,” suitable for casual conversations.

Alternative Phrase	Example Sentence
I’ll get back to you.	“Let me check my schedule and I’ll get back to you later today.”
I’ll keep you posted.	“I’ll keep you posted on how the interview goes.”
I’ll give you a shout.	“I’ll give you a shout when I’m free to hang out.”
I’ll hit you up.	“I’ll hit you up when I’m in town next week.”
I’ll holler at you.	“I’ll holler at you when I get the tickets.”
I’ll be in touch.	“I’ll be in touch soon to finalize the plans.”
I’ll buzz you.	“I’ll buzz you when the pizza arrives.”
I’ll ping you.	“I’ll ping you on WhatsApp with the details.”
I’ll drop you a line.	“I’ll drop you a line when I have more news.”
I’ll give you a buzz.	“I’ll give you a buzz later to discuss the movie.”
I’ll catch you later.	“I’ll catch you later, and we can talk about it then.”
I’ll fill you in.	“I’ll fill you in on all the gossip when we meet.”
I’ll loop you in.	“I’ll loop you in on the email thread.”
I’ll give you the scoop.	“I’ll give you the scoop as soon as I find out.”
I’ll let you know what’s up.	“I’ll let you know what’s up when I’ve had a chance to think about it.”
I’ll keep you in the loop.	“I’ll keep you in the loop about any changes.”
I’ll circle back with you.	“I’ll circle back with you after the meeting.”
I’ll keep you in the know.	“I’ll keep you in the know about the project’s progress.”
I’ll give you the lowdown.	“I’ll give you the lowdown on what happened at the party.”
I’ll touch base with you.	“I’ll touch base with you next week to discuss the details.”

Timeframe Examples

This table demonstrates how to incorporate specific timeframes into your responses.

Certainty Examples

These examples highlight phrases that express confidence in providing the information.

Uncertainty Examples

These examples demonstrate phrases that acknowledge potential delays or the possibility of not being able to provide the information.

“I’ll update you should there be any changes to the itinerary.”

Usage Rules

While these alternatives are generally interchangeable with “I’ll let you know,” there are some subtle differences in usage to be aware of. The key is to consider the context, your relationship with the person you’re speaking to, and the level of formality required.

Formality: Use formal alternatives in professional settings and informal alternatives in casual conversations.
Specificity: If you have a timeframe in mind, include it in your response. This sets clear expectations.
Certainty: Choose phrases that accurately reflect your level of confidence in being able to provide the information.
Clarity: Ensure that your chosen phrase is clear and unambiguous. Avoid jargon or overly complex language.
Tone: Pay attention to the tone of your voice and body language. Even a formal phrase can sound insincere if delivered with a dismissive tone.

It’s also important to be mindful of regional variations in language. Some phrases may be more common or acceptable in certain parts of the world than others.

For example, “I’ll give you a shout” might be more common in British English than in American English.

Finally, remember that consistency is key. Once you’ve chosen a particular phrase, try to use it consistently throughout your communication.

This will help to build trust and rapport with the other person.

Common Mistakes

Even native English speakers sometimes make mistakes when using these alternatives. Here are some common errors to avoid:

Using informal phrases in formal settings: This can come across as unprofessional or disrespectful.
Making promises you can’t keep: Avoid using phrases that emphasize certainty if you’re not sure you can deliver.
Being too vague: If possible, provide a specific timeframe for when you will provide the information.
Using jargon or slang inappropriately: Make sure that your language is appropriate for your audience.
Not following through: If you promise to let someone know, make sure you actually do it.

Here’s a table illustrating common mistakes:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
“I’ll hit you up with the report.” (Said to a CEO)	“I will forward you the report.”	“Hit you up” is too informal for a formal setting.
“I guarantee I’ll let you know… maybe.”	“I’ll try my best to let you know.”	The guarantee is contradicted by “maybe.”
“I’ll let you know sometime.”	“I’ll let you know by Friday.”	“Sometime” is too vague; a specific timeframe is better.
“I’ll keep you in the know, innit?”	“I’ll keep you in the know.”	“Innit” is slang and may not be universally understood.
(Saying “I’ll let you know,” but then forgetting to follow up.)	(Actually following up with the information.)	The most important thing is to keep your promise.
“I’ll revert.” (Without specifying a timeframe or context)	“I’ll revert to you by the end of the day with the revised figures.”	“Revert” is jargon; it’s better with a timeframe and specific context.
“I’ll tell you what’s up” (In a formal business email)	“I will update you on the situation.”	“Tell you what’s up” is too casual for a business email.
“I’ll notify you sometime next week.” (When the deadline is critical)	“I’ll notify you by Monday at 10 AM.”	Providing a specific time is more helpful when the deadline is important.
“I’ll definitely let you know” (When you have no control over the information)	“I’ll let you know if I can, but it depends on external factors.”	Being honest about uncertainty is better than making false promises.
“I’ll be in touch” (Without providing a method of contact)	“I’ll be in touch via email tomorrow morning.”	Specify how you will be in touch to avoid confusion.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Choose the most appropriate alternative to “I’ll let you know” for each scenario.

Question	Options	Answer
1. You’re speaking to your boss about a project update.	a) I’ll hit you up later. b) I will update you during our next meeting. c) I’ll give you a shout.	b) I will update you during our next meeting.
2. You’re talking to a friend about weekend plans.	a) I will advise you shortly. b) I’ll get back to you. c) I shall inform you.	b) I’ll get back to you.
3. A client asks when they can expect a response.	a) I’ll let you know sometime. b) I’ll get back to you eventually. c) I’ll have an answer for you within 24 hours.	c) I’ll have an answer for you within 24 hours.
4. You’re unsure if you can get the requested information.	a) I guarantee I’ll let you know. b) I’ll try to let you know. c) You can be sure I’ll let you know.	b) I’ll try to let you know.
5. You want to reassure someone you will provide the information.	a) I’ll let you know if I can. b) Rest assured, I’ll let you know. c) I’ll let you know maybe	b) Rest assured, I’ll let you know.

Advanced Topics

For those looking to further refine their communication skills, here are some advanced topics to consider:

Nonverbal Communication: Pay attention to your body language and tone of voice when using these alternatives. Nonverbal cues can reinforce or contradict your message.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware that some phrases may be more or less appropriate depending on the cultural context.
Active Listening: Before responding with one of these alternatives, make sure you fully understand the other person’s needs and expectations.
Tailoring Your Language: Adapt your language to the specific audience and situation. Use more formal language with superiors and more informal language with peers.
Using these phrases to buy time: Sometimes “I’ll let you know” and its alternatives are used to postpone giving an answer. While this can be useful in certain situations, it’s important to be transparent and avoid misleading the other person.

FAQ

When is it appropriate to use “I’ll let you know”?

It’s appropriate to use “I’ll let you know” in both formal and informal settings when you need more time to gather information or make a decision before providing an answer. However, consider using more specific or formal alternatives in professional contexts.

What if I can’t provide the information after all?

If you realize you can’t provide the information, be honest and communicate this to the person as soon as possible. Apologize for any inconvenience and explain the reason why you’re unable to fulfill your promise.

How can I avoid sounding vague when using these alternatives?

Provide a specific timeframe whenever possible. For example, instead of saying “I’ll get back to you,” say “I’ll get back to you by the end of the day.”

Are there any phrases I should avoid using altogether?

Avoid using overly informal or slang phrases in professional settings. Also, avoid making promises you can’t keep.

It’s better to be honest about uncertainty than to mislead someone.

How important is it to follow through after saying “I’ll let you know”?

Following through is crucial. If you say you’ll let someone know, make sure you actually do it.

This builds trust and credibility. If you can’t fulfill your promise, communicate this to the person as soon as possible and explain why.

Conclusion

Expanding your vocabulary beyond the basic phrase “I’ll let you know” can significantly enhance your communication skills. By understanding the nuances of different alternatives and tailoring your language to the specific context, you can communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships, and achieve your goals.

Whether you’re speaking to a colleague, a client, or a friend, mastering these alternatives will help you express yourself with greater clarity, confidence, and professionalism. Remember to consider the formality, specificity, and certainty of your message, and always follow through on your promises.