Could we connect on this issue before the meeting at 2PM tomorrow? Could you please repeat it? are the common formal ways of asking someone for clarification in English. The customer will ask you questions, and you will provide polite responses Q: My phone won't start. WebDepends on the clarification. How To Request Clarification Via Email - Email Effective Sorry, but I didnt quite catch your statement. Why dont people respond? It sometimes happens that interviewers may need extra information after your meeting. How to follow the signal when reading the schematic? "In response to your request for. How can I ask, "Why did you send me this link?" If you've been asked to clarify some details, this clarification email reply sample provides a straightforward template to follow. What I meant was. You can end on a positive note by thanking the other person for their time and consideration of their clarification request. There are different ways you can ask for clarification in English. rev2023.3.3.43278. Katie is a passionate digital nomad working on her first book on the art of communication. Use this template to diplomatically seek clarification whenever you get one of these rambly, not-exactly-sure-of-what-this-means email. If I understood you correctly, you would like me to Could you please clarify what you meant by? Indeed Career Guide You can do this by saying "I don't understand" or "I'm not sure I understand. Be polite while asking. Can you please tell me again what document you requested? WebThe preferred ways to ask are could you please provide me with the details, could you provide the details, and do you mind sharing the details with me? These questions get Now it is time to write your clarification email. If you have any questions, you can reach me at (222) 222-2222. She should leave her changes as suggestions. Either way, there is a high probability that youve been in a conversation where you need clarification. How To Write a Follow-up Email After a Verbal Job Offer A slightly more polite version of this phrase is "I'm not sure what you mean by . Doctor: You should take this medicine once a day. Just to make sure were on the same page, all reports are to be completed by Tuesday. Interrupting to ask for clarification. Remember, technical skills get you hired, but soft skills get you promoted. Sometimes, even though were confused, it is simply because we have not been informed of all of the information that is being presented. So that we can action your request promptly, could you please provide some more context and clarification around this? I want to request you to repeat it, may I? Could you please repeat the date of the event? Let me see if I understand this is a phrase that says clearly what you mean in words everyone can understand with no potential hidden meanings. I'm keen to make a decision this week, so can you provide me with answers by (date)? Closed Question: Did you always feel that it was a challenge working with him? As AI is developing and being used in different sectors, writers are also using them to avoid unexpected grammatical errors or typos. Youre a busy person, so here is a template you can use right away. The phrase just making sure is a great alternative to just to clarify, as it is more relaxed. When someone asks you to re-explain a complicated task, your first inclination is probably to say, Wait, what? When it comes to the proper format for asking a clarification question or seeking clarification, the key is to use basic rules of etiquette. You want me to explain the whole thing all over again? This dynamic can create a frustrating feedback loop for both parties. Grammarly stands with our friends, colleagues, and family in Ukraine, and with all people of Ukraine. How to Write a Thank You Email for a Salary Increase In each case, you want to push for the information you need in a polite way to avoid damaging your relationships. In doing so, you will be perceived as non-accusatory and therefore, not threatening. If you need to seek clarification during a presentation, the polite way to do so would be to raise your hand or use some non-offensive gesture to attract the speakers attention (no middle fingers!) Heres an example of how to use for the record in a professional manner. If thats the case, it's best to get straight into business. The meaning of both phrases is the same and used interchangeably. How to So, if you are confused about understanding what the other person said in a conversation, you should ask for clarification. Before you do this exercise, its a good idea to check out our information on intonation and stress. If you still have questions about this, you can comment below. Here is a great example of how to use just to be clear professionally in an email. If you are wanting to ask for clarification politely, blaming the other person is definitely not the way to go. The phrase can you elaborate is a great alternative for when you want to ask for clarification. So, how do you do it? We can say the exact same thing in two entirely different tones of voice. Sorted by: 2. In order to process information, you need to be able to pay attention. *this is very polite) Can you explain what you mean? Asking for clarification How to Ask for Clarification Politely - YouTube Q&A Answertion. Scenario #1: When one person is dominating the conversation. Now, lets learn some expressions that native speakers of English commonly use to ask for clarification. Effective communication, in particular, is a soft skill that plays a crucial role in career advancement. to politely respond to unclear email response In formulating an answer, you may find they did provide enough details. Question and answer site. Asking For Clarification ENGLISH FORUMS. Ask Asking for clarification email to boss sample Is it possible to elaborate on what you said right now? Martin holds a Masters degree in Finance and International Business. You can edit and adapt these as required to get the necessary information. However, they become useless if you dont understand or follow them. Today, we'll introduce 10 polite English expressions for requesting clarification. Its also a great way to allow someone else to add more information they may have forgotten. Asking Clarification I have discussed several situations where you may need to ask for clarification in English. Sorry I couldnt follow you earlier. How to interrupt politely in a meeting. Depending on the circumstances, it may be necessary to respectfully inform the other party that their understanding of the situation is incorrect, or to seek clarification for Sample Letters for Request Bank To Clarify Service Charge. There are times when we ask for suggestions from the people surrounding us. Recently, an American client told me that shes really impressed with my English. No one likes to say those words for fear of sounding slow on the uptake. 10 Ways to Politely Ask for Clarification in English Start with a polite greeting It's polite to start written correspondence with a greeting. Sorry, what was that? ", Telling your conversation partner what you think they meant is an effective way to ask for clarification. Say what the problem is first. If its complex, technical, or there are things the manager needs to know in order to provide the clarification, then by all means write an e-mail. Using the phrase just so I understand is a great alternative if you are confused, astounded, amazed, or in disbelief in regards to the information or instructions you have been given. Which form is more polite and more acceptable for correspondence? WebSo, if you need some clarification for what you just heard, you can use phrases like Sorry, what did you mean by that? Close the email politely and thoughtfully. Moreover, it will imply that you think you already know what the answer is, even though you need clarification! WebHow to Ask for Clarification Politely Collaborative Solutions 338 subscribers 329 views 3 years ago Have you ever experienced a meeting where somebody is explaining something, WebAsking for Clarification. The modal verb Would is the most formal word with which you can form the politest expressions. Clarifying What You Mean, Restating Your Ideas, and Explaining Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. Our goal is to create English lessons that are easy to understand for everyone. When someone says anything, they usually give you information about something or someone. Join a clan or community group specifically for raid novices, or ask your team members for clarification. Sorry? myra on Twitter: "crazyyy how u come into my mentions accusing Both are fine options, but if we're being pedantic, they mean slightly different things. Informal Sorry, I didnt catch that. May I ask you to explain your observation about the new design further? Huh? Conversations, email dialogues, and even text messages progress best when everyone has the same understanding. A good way is to summarize what you have understood and didnt. During these periods, it is best to ask a question as this will allow you to digest whatever information has been presented. Master 101 frequent business situations with our eBook! Before accepting, I would like to clarify some details. This phrase indicates that you are clearly trying to be polite, as please and thank you are reserved for polite, formal speech. Can/Could/Would you please repeat your take on that? and then say something like: Im sorry, I didnt understand what you just said.. However, if you dont understand someones question, you should ask for clarification and answer accordingly. Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. My goal is to complete [Task A] by Thursday, so this information will help me to get started immediately. politely Further, using the conditional mood also indicates that you are not directing the conversation. As we are independently owned, the recommendations made here are our own. Now well learn some very useful expressions that you can use to politely ask for clarification in English. What do you think about somebody/something. You might say: Nows not the time to use the command form of any verb; dont say things like Say it again, slower! or You need to give us more examples! Those are clear indications that you are not being polite. It makes the phrase sound a little bit softer and a little more polite. Most often, when it comes to being perceived as polite when seeking clarification, the concern is heightened by those asking for clarification. While this can be a longer phrase, its a great way to both clarify and ask for clarification while not sounding as though you werent listening or being rude.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'grammarhow_com-box-3','ezslot_3',105,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-grammarhow_com-box-3-0'); If youre looking to clarify something youve said or to ask for more clarification in case you dont want to seem as though you werent paying attention. We can say the exact same thing in two entirely different tones of voice. Would you like me to switch off all the lights? Then Mark will make the copy changes and move the documents to a drive folder marked FINAL. ", 50 Polite Ways to Interrupt Someone in English. It's a good idea to spell out precisely what information you need. Learn useful English phrases for discussion and debate. Well! How to Prepare for Your First Destiny 2 Raid Rule #3: Mind the timing and the relevancy. Then what happens if three players make a sack together? Thanks, you cared. ". You may also like: 10 Better Ways To Say Thank You For Clarifying In Emails. Let me know if you need any further clarification or assistance. Don't worry: Asking for clarification is easy. We can split clarification emails into three parts. First up, here's a sample email seeking clarification. Reminder When it comes to the proper time to ask a question, many presenters or lecturers will ask questions periodically during their presentations or at the end of the presentation. It can be a sensitive area, particularly if your figures don't match, so concentrate on being polite and professional as we have done in the invoice clarification email sample. Looking for clarification? I was just making sure you had received all of the current information regarding the upcoming project. You can also get another perspective by asking someone else to review the information. In your salutation, use the name that the person emailing you signed off with in their message, or whatever name they used when they introduced themselves if you've already met in person. follow up emails <-- This is a past question A: Try plugging your phone into the charger for an hour and then turn it on. It only takes a minute to sign up. How to Politely Ask for Clarification in English ESL Advice Simply say thank you and move on. For example, you could write, "Hello, Ms. The clarification email structure is still the same, but we can assume your boss is already on top of the details. It allows you to ask if youve got the right information, but it also allows you to check-in with other people to make sure they understand the information youve given them. Just to be clear, my working hours are 8am-4pm and you will be unable to contact me outside those hours for work-related purposes. Now, well learn some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify instructions. Show that you appreciate them taking the additional time to review the email, and describe how the information will help achieve the goal. Its an easy phrase used to help break the barrier of communication and make sure everyone has the same information. Oops! Mr. Khan is also a passionate writer working on his first book, "Learn English at Ease. In this example, you're a job seeker; this is how you reply to a recruiter asking for clarification. Dont cross the line. Also known as clarification letters, clarification emails are used to get the information required to move forward. If you're reading this post, you probably want to improve your English conversation skills, and the best way to do that is by having actual conversations. The clarification email format should be no surprise if you're already used to writing professional messages. Here are some expressions to ask for clarification on their requests. Start with an explanatory subject line Try to make the subject line of your email clear and self-explanatory. It gives you an easy way to state what you mean, directly letting everyone know you are sharing pertinent information. And that's how to end an email asking for clarification. Speak from your own perspective, using sentences that start with, I rather than you. For instance, instead of saying, youre not explaining this very well, you could say something like, Im struggling to fully understand the idea that youre sharing. When people feel blamed, they become defensive. Did you ask me to close the main door or this door? Thank you for explaining the question to me. Next, state your current understanding of the situation. WebScore: 4.2/5 (13 votes) . Then, if youre still not clear on something, its time to write an email to ask for clarification. If you need any other information, please let me know. Weve all been there: a long meeting, an intense lecture, a complicated sales presentation. Are you aware of how your tone of voice conveys different messages? Write emails & messages faster than ever with our AI writing assistant, Get the best resources for professional communication & productivity. If you're facing a deadline, you should always include details about when you need to receive answers. WebKnowing how to ask for clarification politely is simple with a question like could you please clarify? It shows that youd like someone to add further information to something by clarifying what they mean. 10 Polite Ways To Say "Just To Clarify" (Professional Email) [2]. Watch the video: Only 1 percent of our visitors get these 3 grammar questions right 10 Better Ways To Say Thank You For Clarifying In Emails, 11 Better Ways To Say No Worries In Professional Emails, 9 More Polite Ways To Say I Dont Care (Professional), 9 Better Ways to Say Just to Confirm in an Email, 9 Other Ways to Say Im Good At on a Resume, 10 Polite Ways to Say No Visitors after Surgery, 11 Best Ways to Say Im Here for You to a Loved One, 10 Professional Ways to Say I Am Not Feeling Well. I was pleased to receive your job offer earlier today. Usually the information you seek is written on the card. Im sorry, but I couldnt follow your question. Will you please repeat the standard operating procedure of this machine? (A) works with middle managers who want to communicate authentically so they can effectively lead their teams without losing themselves. Asking somebody to clarify something Thanks for Sorry, one more time? Regardless of the situation: informal, semi-formal, or formal, you are expected to be polite in your choice of words, voice tone, and body language whenever you ask for permission. I beg your pardon, but have you mentioned my name as a team member for the new project? However, on many occasions, you may also need to use closed questions as well. Rule #2: Apologize for interrupting. Thanks, Tannia, for your support! Chris G. Did you say that you want to go there alone? When asking for clarification, the key to being polite is to embrace the opposite of the principles noted above: Ask at the proper time, use a polite format and present your question in a genuine and sincere manner. Have you wanted me to send the emails first, then attend the meeting? Stack Exchange network consists of 181 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow, the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers. [Survey] Is It Rude to Say Please and Thank You at the Same Time? Put the question in the first or second sentence. Would you mind saying what type of permission, written or verbal, you need? When you are in a situation where you need to provide clarification on something, but you also need to be stern, using the phrase let me make this clear is perfect for getting your point across while correcting any misinformation someone may have had. Good Communication Makes You More Valuable. Make sure that you dont point fingers or blame the other person for not conveying information well enough. Be specific about what you expect to be clarified. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. WebSample Email Asking Clarification From Client This is likewise one of the factors by obtaining the soft documents of this Sample Email Asking Clarification From how to ask for clarification politely collaborative solutions web here are a Your assistance will go a long way in helping to resolve [issue]. ." When someone expresses their opinion, you may not clearly understand what they mean or what their position about the matter is. Could you please explain the whole process of doing this? *Its better to use Past, not Present. Closed Question: So, you felt Bobs approach was too disruptive? Make your email easy to read. English Language & Usage Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts. Establish your credibility. Do you mind if I ask you to mention his name again? Some people struggle to write subject lines, but the easiest thing to do is be upfront about what you want. Thanks for clearly letting me know your opinion; I value whatever you suggest. Could you explain a bit about your concerns regarding the other solution?, I dont think I fully understand what you were saying about Could you tell me a bit more?, I think it might help me if I could understand a few more details about that part of the project., Could you give me a concrete example to help me understand how that might affect our current situation?, understand the other persons point of view. You'll also hear native speakers say "If I understood you correctly." Dont make it sound bad. In doing so, you will be perceived as non-accusatory and therefore, not threatening. WebIn American English, the word actually is often used to clarify a misunderstanding. Do not give orders or blackmail your colleagues. 20 Email Expressions to Ask for Clarification Tannia Surez Practice the mechanics: Many of the mechanics youll encounter in a raid can also be found in other activities. Make sure that you actually need clarification. Doubling the cube, field extensions and minimal polynoms. Thanks for sending over your directions for implementing the new website copy. Depending on the audience and the topic, you can also ask for clarification by simply asking a question, such as: Why is the hypotenuse important for a triangle?. Heres How to Ask for Clarification From Someone Else Amid the four types of questions commonly asked, clarification questions are probably the most understandable and justifiable in any circumstance. Would approach A or B be more helpful here? (A) works with middle managers who want to communicate authentically so they can effectively lead their teams without losing themselves. Managing conflicts or misunderstandings through email communication can be challenging. Just be sure to fill in all the gaps, and proofread before sending. Would/Could you please clarify it for me/us?