Work emails · Plain-English guide
What does “By return” mean?
Reply promptly, often as soon as the message is received.
“A reply is easier when we know what must return.” — Arthur
What it means in practice
In an email this usually asks for a prompt reply. It comes from correspondence sent back by the next available post, but does not establish a precise modern deadline.
An example and a clearer version
The original wording
Please confirm by return.
In plain English
Please confirm today if you can.
What to say instead
as soon as you can.
How to make the next step clear
Decide whether you need an immediate acknowledgement or a complete answer. Those are different requests. Someone may be able to confirm receipt now but need time to check the details.
Wording you can adapt
Please confirm today that you received the documents. You can send your comments by Friday.
The wording around a phrase matters. Keep the names, dates, amounts and conditions from the original when you rewrite it.
Try “By return” with Arthur →