The phrasal verb "report back" is used predominantly in informal settings, but it can also find a place in formal contexts, especially in professional environments. In informal speech, it often indicates the act of returning with feedback or information following a task or assignment, as in "Make sure you report back to me after the meeting." In more formal scenarios, such as business or military settings, it can imply a structured or scheduled briefing or update, like "The research team was asked to report back with their findings by Friday." Generally, this phrasal verb is utilized when conveying the necessity of providing an account or updates from an individual or group after completing a certain activity. It emphasizes the transition between receiving instructions and completing a task with the obligation to inform upon conclusion.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To return and provide details or findings after observing or investigating a situation.
After visiting the new branch, she was asked to report back with her findings.
He promised to report back to the committee with his recommendations as soon as possible.
2. To give a response after being given a task or mission, often used in a military or professional context.
The captain ordered the scouts to report back by sunset.
Once you finish the project, please report back with your progress.