Knowing various ways to express the simple phrase “I will let you know” is crucial for effective and nuanced communication in English. This phrase, while common, can sound somewhat informal or even vague in certain contexts.
Expanding your repertoire with alternative expressions allows you to convey different levels of certainty, urgency, and formality. This article will explore a wide array of options, providing clear explanations, examples, and practical exercises to help you master these alternatives.
Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply looking to improve your communication skills, this guide will equip you with the tools to express yourself more precisely and confidently.
By understanding the subtle differences between these phrases, you can tailor your language to suit the specific situation, audience, and desired tone. This not only enhances your clarity but also demonstrates a greater command of the English language.
Let’s dive into the world of alternative expressions and unlock the power of precise communication.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition and Context
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories
- Examples
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition and Context
The phrase “I will let you know” is a common expression used to indicate that you will provide someone with information at a later time. It’s a versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts, but its simplicity can sometimes lack the nuance needed for more formal or specific situations.
The key components of this phrase are the future tense (“will”), the verb “let” (meaning to allow or permit), and the verb “know” (meaning to be aware of something). Together, they convey a promise to share information once it becomes available.
The phrase functions primarily as a promise or commitment to provide information. Its effectiveness depends heavily on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the listener. In casual conversation among friends, it’s perfectly acceptable. However, in a professional setting or when dealing with important matters, it might be perceived as too informal or lacking a sense of urgency. Therefore, understanding alternative expressions is vital for effective communication in diverse scenarios.
The phrase also implies a degree of uncertainty or dependence on external factors. The speaker doesn’t currently have the information but anticipates receiving it in the future. This inherent uncertainty is another reason to consider alternative phrasing, especially when you want to project confidence or assure the listener that you’re actively working to obtain the information.
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure of the phrase “I will let you know” follows a simple subject-verb-object pattern. Let’s break it down:
- Subject: I – This is the person making the promise to provide information.
- Auxiliary Verb: will – This indicates future tense.
- Main Verb: let – In this context, “let” means to allow or permit.
- Indirect Object: you – This is the person who will receive the information.
- Verb (infinitive form): know – This is the action that the indirect object will be permitted to do.
This structure can be modified to create variations of the phrase. For example, you can add adverbs to specify the timeframe (e.g., “I will let you know soon“) or use different verbs to express the type of information being conveyed (e.g., “I will inform you”). The future tense can also be expressed using “going to” (e.g., “I am going to let you know”).
Understanding this basic structure allows you to manipulate the components and create more sophisticated and context-appropriate alternatives. By substituting different verbs, adverbs, and prepositions, you can convey subtle nuances of meaning and tailor your communication to the specific situation.
Types and Categories
The various alternatives to “I will let you know” can be categorized based on their level of formality, the emphasis they place on promptness, whether they express a conditional element, or whether they are expressed in the passive voice. Understanding these categories helps you choose the most appropriate phrase for any given situation.
Informal Alternatives
These phrases are suitable for casual conversations with friends, family, or close colleagues. They often use simpler language and a more relaxed tone.
Examples include: “I’ll keep you posted,” “I’ll be in touch,” “I’ll get back to you,” and “I’ll give you a shout.” These phrases are generally shorter and more conversational than their formal counterparts.
Formal Alternatives
These phrases are appropriate for professional settings, formal correspondence, or when addressing someone you don’t know well. They tend to use more sophisticated vocabulary and a more respectful tone.
Examples include: “I will inform you,” “I will advise you,” “I will update you,” and “You will be notified.” These phrases convey a sense of professionalism and attention to detail.
Alternatives Emphasizing Promptness
These phrases highlight the speed with which you will provide the information. They are useful when you want to assure the listener that you will address their request quickly.
Examples include: “I’ll let you know ASAP (as soon as possible),” “I’ll get back to you shortly,” “I’ll inform you immediately,” and “I’ll update you right away.” These phrases convey a sense of urgency and commitment to timely communication.
Conditional Alternatives
These phrases indicate that providing the information depends on certain conditions being met. They are useful when the availability of the information is contingent on external factors.
Examples include: “I’ll let you know once I have the details,” “I’ll inform you as soon as I receive confirmation,” “I’ll update you if anything changes,” and “I’ll advise you provided that I receive further information.” These phrases manage expectations and acknowledge the uncertainty surrounding the information.
Passive Alternatives
These phrases shift the focus from the speaker to the recipient, emphasizing that the recipient will receive the information. They can be useful in formal or impersonal contexts.
Examples include: “You will be informed,” “You will be notified,” “Information will be provided,” and “Updates will be sent.” These phrases create a sense of objectivity and formality.
Examples
The following tables provide a variety of examples for each category, illustrating how these alternative phrases can be used in different contexts.
Informal Examples
This table contains examples of informal ways to say “I will let you know”. These are suitable for casual conversations with friends, family, or close colleagues.
| Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| I’ll keep you posted. | “I’m waiting to hear back about the job, but I’ll keep you posted.” |
| I’ll be in touch. | “Thanks for your help! I’ll be in touch soon.” |
| I’ll get back to you. | “Let me check with my manager and I’ll get back to you.” |
| I’ll give you a shout. | “I’ll give you a shout when I’m free this weekend.” |
| I’ll drop you a line. | “I’ll drop you a line when I arrive in London.” |
| I’ll fill you in. | “I’ll fill you in on all the gossip later.” |
| I’ll loop you in. | “I’ll loop you in on the email thread.” |
| I’ll ping you. | “I’ll ping you on Slack when the meeting starts.” |
| I’ll holler at you. | “I’ll holler at you when I’m done with work.” |
| I’ll tell you what’s up. | “I’ll tell you what’s up as soon as I know.” |
| I’ll give you the deets. | “I’ll give you the deets about the party later.” |
| I’ll let you know what’s going on. | “I’ll let you know what’s going on as soon as I find out.” |
| I’ll give you a buzz. | “I’ll give you a buzz when I’m on my way.” |
| I’ll keep you in the loop. | “I’ll keep you in the loop regarding the project’s progress.” |
| I’ll update you later. | “I need to go now, but I’ll update you later.” |
| I’ll catch you up. | “Don’t worry, I’ll catch you up on everything you missed.” |
| I’ll send you the info. | “I’ll send you the info as soon as I have it.” |
| I’ll text you. | “I’ll text you when I’m ready to leave.” |
| I’ll DM you. | “I’ll DM you the details on Instagram.” |
| I’ll message you. | “I’ll message you when I’m free to chat.” |
| I’ll get back to you ASAP. | “I’m busy right now, but I’ll get back to you ASAP.” |
| I’ll let you know shortly. | “I’m just finishing up this task, and I’ll let you know shortly.” |
| I’ll get back to you soon. | “I need to check my schedule first, but I’ll get back to you soon.” |
Formal Examples
This table illustrates formal alternatives to “I will let you know.” These are suitable for professional settings, formal correspondence, or when addressing someone you don’t know well.
| Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| I will inform you. | “I will inform you of the decision by the end of the week.” |
| I will advise you. | “I will advise you on the best course of action.” |
| I will update you. | “I will update you on the project’s progress regularly.” |
| You will be notified. | “You will be notified of any changes to the schedule.” |
| I will communicate the details to you. | “I will communicate the details to you as soon as they are finalized.” |
| I will provide you with the information. | “I will provide you with the information you requested.” |
| I will furnish you with the details. | “I will furnish you with the details pertaining to the contract.” |
| I will apprise you of the situation. | “I will apprise you of the situation as it develops.” |
| I shall inform you. | “I shall inform you of the outcome of the meeting.” |
| I will keep you informed. | “I will keep you informed of any relevant developments.” |
| I will ensure you are kept up-to-date. | “I will ensure you are kept up-to-date on the latest regulations.” |
| I will communicate with you regarding this matter. | “I will communicate with you regarding this matter at your earliest convenience.” |
| I will pass along the information. | “I will pass along the information as soon as I receive it.” |
| I will disseminate the information to you. | “I will disseminate the information to you via email.” |
| I will make sure you are aware. | “I will make sure you are aware of any potential risks.” |
| I will keep you abreast of the situation. | “I will keep you abreast of the situation as it unfolds.” |
| I will forward the information to you. | “I will forward the information to you once it becomes available.” |
| You will receive an update. | “You will receive an update on the status of your application.” |
| Notification will be sent to you. | “Notification will be sent to you upon completion of the process.” |
| I will send you a formal notification. | “I will send you a formal notification regarding the policy change.” |
| I will be in contact with you. | “I will be in contact with you shortly to discuss the next steps.” |
| I will formally advise you. | “I will formally advise you on the legal implications of this decision.” |
| I will provide a formal update. | “I will provide a formal update at the next board meeting.” |
Promptness Examples
This table showcases alternatives that emphasize the speed with which you will provide the information.
| Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| I’ll let you know ASAP (as soon as possible). | “I’m waiting for a response, but I’ll let you know ASAP.” |
| I’ll get back to you shortly. | “I’m in a meeting, but I’ll get back to you shortly.” |
| I’ll inform you immediately. | “I’ll inform you immediately if there are any changes.” |
| I’ll update you right away. | “I’ll update you right away when I have the numbers.” |
| I’ll notify you promptly. | “I’ll notify you promptly once I receive confirmation.” |
| I’ll get back to you in a jiffy. | “Give me a moment to check and I’ll get back to you in a jiffy.” |
| I’ll let you know in a snap. | “I’ll find out the answer and let you know in a snap.” |
| I’ll get back to you momentarily. | “Please hold, I’ll get back to you momentarily.” |
| I’ll update you in a bit. | “I’m almost done, I’ll update you in a bit.” |
| I’ll inform you without delay. | “I’ll inform you without delay as soon as I have the results.” |
| I’ll update you at the earliest. | “I’ll update you at the earliest opportunity.” |
| I’ll tell you directly. | “I’ll tell you directly when I have the final decision.” |
| I’ll respond to you swiftly. | “I’ll respond to you swiftly once I have the details.” |
| I’ll get back to you without hesitation. | “I’ll get back to you without hesitation as soon as I know.” |
| I’ll update you in a timely manner. | “I’ll update you in a timely manner regarding the project’s progress.” |
| I’ll inform you straight away. | “I’ll inform you straight away if there are any problems.” |
| I’ll respond to you immediately upon learning. | “I’ll respond to you immediately upon learning the outcome.” |
| I’ll give you an immediate update. | “I’ll give you an immediate update once I have the information.” |
| You’ll hear from me right away. | “Don’t worry, you’ll hear from me right away.” |
| I’ll notify you as soon as possible. | “I’ll notify you as soon as possible about the flight status.” |
| I will be in touch momentarily. | “Thank you for your patience, I will be in touch momentarily.” |
| I will get back to you presently. | “I need to consult with my team, but I will get back to you presently.” |
| I will reach out imminently. | “The situation is rapidly evolving, I will reach out imminently.” |
Conditional Examples
This table provides examples of how to express that providing information depends on certain conditions being met.
| Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| I’ll let you know once I have the details. | “I’ll let you know once I have the details of the agreement.” |
| I’ll inform you as soon as I receive confirmation. | “I’ll inform you as soon as I receive confirmation from the client.” |
| I’ll update you if anything changes. | “I’ll update you if anything changes with the schedule.” |
| I’ll advise you provided that I receive further information. | “I’ll advise you provided that I receive further information from the investigation.” |
| I’ll let you know subject to approval. | “I’ll let you know subject to approval from the board.” |
| I will update you depending on the outcome. | “I will update you depending on the outcome of the meeting.” |
| I’ll inform you on the condition that I hear back soon. | “I’ll inform you on the condition that I hear back soon from the supplier.” |
| I’ll let you know if the situation develops. | “I’ll let you know if the situation develops further.” |
| I’ll advise you assuming that the data is accurate. | “I’ll advise you assuming that the data is accurate.” |
| I will update you conditional on the survey results. | “I will update you conditional on the survey results.” |
| I’ll let you know when the report is finalized. | “I’ll let you know when the report is finalized and ready for distribution.” |
| I’ll inform you as soon as the contract is signed. | “I’ll inform you as soon as the contract is signed by both parties.” |
| I’ll update you if there are any complications. | “I’ll update you if there are any complications during the procedure.” |
| I’ll advise you provided that all the necessary documents are submitted. | “I’ll advise you provided that all the necessary documents are submitted on time.” |
| I’ll let you know once the payment is processed. | “I’ll let you know once the payment is processed and the order is confirmed.” |
| I’ll inform you as soon as the funds are available. | “I’ll inform you as soon as the funds are available in the account.” |
| I’ll update you if the weather permits. | “I’ll update you if the weather permits for the outdoor event.” |
| I’ll advise you provided that the project stays on schedule. | “I’ll advise you provided that the project stays on schedule and within budget.” |
| I’ll let you know when the system is back online. | “I’ll let you know when the system is back online and fully operational.” |
| I’ll inform you as soon as the shipment arrives. | “I’ll inform you as soon as the shipment arrives at the warehouse.” |
| I’ll update you if the regulations change. | “I’ll update you if the regulations change regarding the import of goods.” |
| I’ll advise you provided that we receive the necessary approvals. | “I’ll advise you provided that we receive the necessary approvals from the authorities.” |
| I’ll let you know when the construction is complete. | “I’ll let you know when the construction is complete and the building is ready for occupancy.” |
Passive Examples
This table provides examples of passive alternatives, where the focus is on the recipient receiving the information.
| Phrase | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| You will be informed. | “You will be informed of the decision in due course.” |
| You will be notified. | “You will be notified of any changes to the policy.” |
| Information will be provided. | “Information will be provided upon request.” |
| Updates will be sent. | “Updates will be sent via email.” |
| Details will be communicated. | “Details will be communicated in the next briefing.” |
| You shall be advised. | “You shall be advised on the legal implications of this action.” |
| Notification will be given. | “Notification will be given to all affected parties.” |
| The information will be disseminated. | “The information will be disseminated through official channels.” |
| You will be kept up to date. | “You will be kept up to date on the latest developments.” |
| Advice will be furnished. | “Advice will be furnished by our legal team.” |
| An update will be issued. | “An update will be issued following the investigation.” |
| You will receive communication. | “You will receive communication within 24 hours.” |
| You will be kept aware. | “You will be kept aware of any potential risks.” |
| The matter will be communicated to you. | “The matter will be communicated to you by our representative.” |
| A response will be provided. | “A response will be provided within three business days.” |
| The decision will be conveyed. | “The decision will be conveyed to you in writing.” |
| Communication will be sent to your address. | “Formal communication will be sent to your registered address.” |
| You will be contacted. | “You will be contacted by our customer service team.” |
| The report will be delivered to you. | “The report will be delivered to you by the end of the week.” |
| You will be informed of the progress. | “You will be informed of the progress on a weekly basis.” |
| You will receive a follow-up. | “You will receive a follow-up email with more details.” |
| Advice will be offered. | “Expert advice will be offered to help you make the right decision.” |
| You will be kept in the loop. | “You will be kept in the loop regarding the project’s development.” |
Usage Rules
Choosing the right alternative to “I will let you know” depends on several factors, including the context, the audience, and the desired tone. Here are some general guidelines:
- Formality: Use formal alternatives in professional settings, with superiors, or when addressing someone you don’t know well. Use informal alternatives with friends, family, or close colleagues.
- Promptness: If you want to emphasize that you will provide the information quickly, use phrases like “I’ll let you know ASAP” or “I’ll get back to you shortly.”
- Conditionality: If the availability of the information depends on certain conditions, use phrases like “I’ll let you know once I have the details” or “I’ll update you if anything changes.”
- Clarity: Choose the phrase that most accurately reflects the situation and the type of information you will be providing.
- Consistency: Maintain a consistent level of formality throughout your communication.
It’s also important to consider the specific connotations of each phrase. For example, “I’ll keep you posted” suggests a series of updates over time, while “I’ll get back to you” implies a single response to a specific question.
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using alternatives to “I will let you know”:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| “I will let you know soonly.” | “I will let you know soon.” | “Soonly” is not a word. Use “soon” as the adverb. |
| “I’ll inform to you.” | “I’ll inform you.” | The preposition “to” is unnecessary after “inform.” |
| “I’m going to letting you know.” | “I’m going to let you know.” | Use the base form of the verb “let” after “going to.” |
| “I will advise you when I will know.” | “I will advise you when I know.” | Avoid using “will” in the subordinate clause after “when.” |
| “I’ll update you if something will change.” | “I’ll update you if something changes.” | Avoid using “will” in the subordinate clause after “if.” |
| “You will be notify.” | “You will be notified.” | Use the correct past participle form of the verb “notify.” |
| “I’ll get back at you.” | “I’ll get back to you.” | The correct preposition to use with “get back” in this context is “to.” |
| “I’m gone tell you.” | “I’m going to tell you.” | This is a misspelling and grammatical error. Use the correct form “going to tell.” |
| “I keep you updated.” | “I will keep you updated.” | The future tense requires the auxiliary verb “will.” |
| “I let you know yesterday.” | “I let you know yesterday.” (Correct, but context matters) or “I informed you yesterday.” | While grammatically correct, ensure the tense aligns with the context. Consider a more formal alternative if appropriate. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding with these practice exercises. Choose the most appropriate alternative to “I will let you know” for each scenario.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. You’re talking to a friend about a concert you might attend. What do you say? | I’ll keep you posted. |
| 2. You’re speaking to your manager about a project update. What do you say? | I will update you on the project’s progress. |
| 3. A colleague asks when you’ll have the data they requested. You’ll get it soon. What do you say? | I’ll get back to you shortly. |
| 4. You’re waiting for a client to approve a proposal. What do you say? | I’ll let you know once I have the details from the client. |
| 5. You’re sending an email to a customer about their order status. What do you say? | You will be notified when your order ships. |
| 6. A friend asks if you can help them move next weekend. You need to check your schedule. What do you say? | I’ll let you know ASAP. |
| 7. You’re a lawyer responding to a client’s inquiry. What do you say? | I will advise you on the best course of action. |
| 8. You’re waiting for test results. What do you say? | I’ll inform you as soon as I receive confirmation. |
| 9. You’re unsure if there will be changes to a plan. What do you say? | I’ll update you if anything changes. |
| 10. You need more information before you can advise someone. What do you say? | I’ll advise you provided that I receive further information. |
Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences using a more formal alternative to “I will let you know.”
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I’ll let you know when I find out. | I will inform you when I have the information. |
| 2. I’ll keep you posted on the situation. | I will keep you informed of the situation. |
| 3. I’ll get back to you with the details. | I will provide you with the details. |
| 4. I’ll give you a shout when I’m ready. | You will be notified when I am ready. |
| 5. I’ll let you know what’s up. | I will advise you of the situation. |
| 6. I’ll fill you in on the details. | I will communicate the details to you. |
| 7. I’ll loop you in on the email chain. | I will include you in the email communication. |
| 8. I’ll ping you when I’m done. | I will contact you upon completion. |
| 9. I’ll holler at you later. | I will be in contact with you later. |
| 10. I’ll give you the deets. | I will furnish you with the details. |
Exercise 3: Choose the best alternative to express urgency.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I will let you know _____. (options: eventually, ASAP, sometime) | ASAP |
| 2. I’ll get back to you _____. (options: by Friday, shortly, when I can) | shortly |
| 3. I’ll inform you _____. (options: eventually, immediately, at my convenience) | immediately |
| 4. I’ll update you _____. (options: when I have time, right away, eventually) | right away |
| 5. I’ll notify you _____. (options: promptly, soon, later) | promptly |
Advanced Topics
Beyond the basic alternatives, there are more nuanced ways to express the intent to provide information. These advanced techniques involve using more sophisticated vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and indirect language.
- Using Modal Verbs: Employing modal verbs like “shall,” “should,” “could,” and “might” can add a layer of subtlety to your communication. For instance, “I shall inform you” sounds more formal and definitive than “I will let you know.”
- Employing Subjunctive Mood: The subjunctive mood can be used to express uncertainty or conditionality. For example, “Were I to receive any updates, I would inform you immediately.”
- Using Nominalizations: Transforming verbs into nouns can create a more formal and objective tone. For example, instead of “I will inform you,” you could say, “Notification will be provided.”
- Varying Sentence Structure: Using complex sentence structures, such as compound or complex sentences, can add depth and sophistication to your communication. For example, “As soon as I have had the opportunity to review the documentation, I will be in touch.”
Mastering these advanced techniques requires a strong command of English grammar and vocabulary. However, the effort is well worth it, as it allows you to express yourself with greater precision and nuance.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about alternatives to “I will let you know”:
Is “I’ll let you know” always inappropriate?
No, “I’ll let you know” is perfectly acceptable in many situations, especially in casual conversations with friends, family, or close colleagues. However, it may be perceived as too informal or vague in professional settings or when dealing with important matters.
How can I sound more confident when promising to provide information?
Use more assertive language, such as “I will inform you” or “I will provide you with the information.” Avoid phrases that suggest uncertainty or dependence on external factors.
What’s the best way to emphasize the speed with which I will provide the information?
Use phrases like “I’ll let you know ASAP,” “I’ll get back to you shortly,” or “I’ll inform you immediately.”
How can I manage expectations when the availability of information depends on certain conditions?
Use phrases like “I’ll let you know once I have the details” or “I’ll update you if anything changes.”
Are there any phrases I should avoid altogether?
Avoid using slang or overly casual language in professional settings. Also, avoid phrases that are ambiguous or unclear.
How do I choose the right alternative in a specific situation?
Consider the context, the audience, and the desired tone. Choose the phrase that most accurately reflects the situation and conveys the appropriate level of formality, promptness, and certainty.
Conclusion
Mastering alternatives to “I will let you know” is an essential skill for effective communication in English. By understanding the nuances of different phrases and tailoring your language to the specific situation, you can convey your message with greater clarity, confidence, and professionalism.
This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of various alternatives, along with examples, exercises, and usage rules to help you expand your communication repertoire. Practice using these phrases in your daily conversations and writing, and you’ll soon find yourself expressing yourself more precisely and effectively.