how to ask for clarification politely how to ask for clarification politely

Let the person know if you dont quite grasp the issue or if you only understand part of it. Practice the mechanics: Many of the mechanics youll encounter in a raid can also be found in other activities. Still, you may feel like youre being rude if you ask for clarification on the schedule, format, and personal perceptions of those in attendance. Be specific about what you expect to be clarified. Can you repeat it? Heres an example to show you how it works: Dear Ms. Browne, Could you please clarify whether this is correct? ?". Have a conversation before sending an email. Sorry I couldnt follow you earlier. Can you assist me with this question by tomorrow afternoon? This article breaks down the process of writing request emails for information, documents, contact details, favors and more. However, if you dont understand them, you should ask them to clarify. 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. In this situation, you may need to ask them to repeat, explain or clarify their position. In order to process information, you need to be able to pay attention. Here's a helpful thank you template for email clarification. If you ever have a question and wish to seek clarification, using the proper timing, format and intention will ensure that your question comes across as the perfect clarification question to help everyone see more clearly. Email format guide 6 examples & templates. Thanks.. 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. Invest in your future by investing time and effort to improve your communication skills. ?" Im not sure when youd like me to start adding the copy to the development website. WebRule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in. How do you get out of a corner when plotting yourself into a corner. New Questions. I am sorry, but did you say he is the companys CEO? Niaj A A Khan is an ESL Instructor with over 7 years of experience in teaching & developing resources at different universities and institutes. Before accepting, I would like to clarify some details. Here are some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify their position or opinion. You should only ask for clarification if you really feel it requires clarification. Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. Once someone clarifies something for you, you must appreciate their effort. Keep subject lines short, sweet, and simple like these: We'll assume you've already got a relationship with the email recipient, so you don't need to introduce yourself (unless you want to). Start with an explanatory subject line Try to make the subject line of your email clear and self-explanatory. 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. You can use the following template to make sure that you have effective communication for professional emails or personal emails. I want to request you to repeat it, may I? Put the question in the first or second sentence. Its also a great way to allow someone else to add more information they may have forgotten. Greet your reader. Ask a question. Ask for help: If youre struggling to understand a mechanic, dont hesitate to ask for help. 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. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Here are some expressions to ask for clarification when someone asks for your permission. Email structure and phrases for clarification Write a clear subject line, or respond directly to the email you wish to clarify. You should thank them from the core of your heart. May I ask you to share your suggestions again? Would you like me to switch off all the lights? This article will introduce you to some pointers on how to request clarification via email. Informally You can simply say Sorry? or Come again? with a curious tone to ask someone for clarification. Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. In such a business situation I would offer my business card and politely ask: "Do you have a card I could have?" Writing a letter for clarification is easy if you follow our advice. Before accepting, you may want clarification about the terms and conditions or the salary. How to agree/disagree. If thats the case, it's best to get straight into business. Some people struggle to write subject lines, but the easiest thing to do is be upfront about what you want. The preferred synonym to just to clarify is just to make sure were on the same page. Start with a polite greeting It's polite to start written correspondence with a greeting. Thank you for your time and for helping me to clarify these questions. Could you please repeat it? are the common formal ways of asking someone for clarification in English. Now pretend I don't know anything about how that works. If you When youre writing a professional email, you may find yourself tired of using the phrase just to clarify, but cant come up with any other options, dont worry! Sometimes we need clarification when we want to get a better handle on where others are coming from. A great example of when you could use this phrase is if you have been given a set of instructions from one person, but had been told something a little different from someone else. (We told you it was easy, now see our examples!). Supercharge your communication with Flowrite. Join a clan or community group specifically for raid novices, or ask your team members for clarification. These experiences have taught Lindsay great lessons about the power of excellent people skills that extend well beyond her professional expertise. Our goal is to create English lessons that are easy to understand for everyone. What do you think about somebody/something. ? Every day, we get engaged in conversations for different purposes. Thank you for sending me information about (product/service). Messaging your boss or manager is slightly different from the formal format we use above. Its an easy phrase used to help break the barrier of communication and make sure everyone has the same information. Introduction. Once again, clarification would be necessary. Clarification Sample Letters How to Write a. Katie Holmes is a senior author at everyday-courtesy.com with over 15 years of experience in marketing and psychology. She should leave her changes as suggestions. Looking for clarification? I couldnt follow what you said about it. Would you say that again, please? & I am afraid I didnt quite catch that. Have you just said you will go to Coxs Bazar next week? For your information is a phrase you can use when you want it to be clear to all that you are going to provide information. requesting help on restructuring project of our shared client SkyTechlet's discuss details over call or video conferenceyour advice invaluable. WebScore: 4.2/5 (13 votes) . "In response to your request for. Could/Would/Can you be a bit clearer about it? You can set things straight with this email clarifying the dates if that happens. So what can you say instead? To avoid that loop, start by explaining what you do understand and ask whether you have it right. Avoid guilt. In the next section of the email, you want to clearly outline your goals, any important deadlines, and next steps. Can you rephrase the instructions, please? Learn more about Stack Overflow the company, and our products. Please let me know if I misunderstood. I appreciate your help. If we want to make sure that someone has understood, you can request confirmation that someone has For example, you could write, "Hello, Ms. [3]. In formulating an answer, you may find they did provide enough details. Open Question: What were you expecting to experience? (meaning to say it in another way) is appropriate. There are different ways you can ask for clarification in English. Start with a greeting Most professional emails begin with a greeting or a salutation. Good Communication Makes You More Valuable. rev2023.3.3.43278. You mean you need some books from the library, isnt it? Lets move on. English Language & Usage Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts. Learn how to format emails and get your point across in a professional manner by checking out these 6 common email formats. writing effective letters Public World. Thank you! Sorry, but I didnt quite catch your statement. What is the correct way to screw wall and ceiling drywalls? Janet opened the door and smiled slightly. WebHow do you politely ask for something? To ask for clarification politely, it is essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. We encounter numerous questionsin our everyday life. Use open-ended questions to guide the discussion. Need help nailing down some details about a person, product, project, or appointment? Lindsay Lapaquette, M.Sc. Would you mind repeating the name of the place? Why do many companies reject expired SSL certificates as bugs in bug bounties? Are there tables of wastage rates for different fruit and veg? Rule #2: Apologize for interrupting. In such situations, it is highly probable that someone will wish to ask for clarification. Sometimes, even though were confused, it is simply because we have not been informed of all of the information that is being presented. It's even better if you can have conversations and get corrected by a professional English tutor! ". For ESL learners, interrupting someone while someone is talking can Linguix vs. Grammarly: Which AI Writing Assistant Is Value for Money in 2023? Read more about Martin here. "As per your request. Then Mark will make the copy changes and move the documents to a drive folder marked FINAL. Using this phrase, you can include all the instructions youve been given and make sure they are correct. But would you please tell me what would be the best time to take it? Clarity is the key to effective communication. It starts with a simple subject line. car, washing machine, telephone) to a sales department or someone involved in procurement. Could/Would/Can you explain what you mean by this? Can you clarify some details for me, please? Today, we'll introduce 10 polite English expressions for requesting clarification. I am available for a phone call or meeting if that would be helpful or more convenient for you. Therefore, Using phrases such as Im sorry or The first thing you should do is thank the sender for providing the information. Always consider the setting: formal and informal. Always keep in mind that the other person is not bound to clarify things again for you. Did you ask about the total turnover for this year? Make your email easy to read. "Mr.Lyman, could you come out here please? Can you go over this area again just so I understand the new changes you want implemented? Read and listen to these possible responses. It also depends on how big the work is, but I think that generally asking for clarification is never a bad idea. WebA listener can ask for clarification when they cannot make sense of the speaker's responses. WebSo, if you need some clarification for what you just heard, you can use phrases like Sorry, what did you mean by that? Bullet points are the most effective way of listing out your questions. How to interrupt Next, state your current understanding of the situation. 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!) Using indicator constraint with two variables. Both of them are fine in any conversation of an official nature, but are not exclusively limited to just the two. ESL Advice is an online platform for ESL learners and teachers in which an expert team of ESL Teachers shares exclusive tips and advice about the English language. For example, if you seek clarification, then you can ask: Could you please explain how to politely ask for clarification? It also allows for a wide range of expression as the tone it is said in can add more meaning to the phrase. These samples tackle many common reasons you may need clarification. Simply say thank you and move on. Sometimes you may not completely understand what Sorted by: 2. Could/Would you explain it again, please? For such individuals, paying attention to lengthy topics, particularly if it is not an area of interest, will be ineffective and there is a high chance that such individuals will be distracted at some point. Have a listen: I got it. Please let me know if you need any other information. You could go with something like: "Hello Bob, from your answer I couldn't understand what you want me to do; I have 2 options, X and Y, could you please be more clear about which one you want me to use?" Sorry to interrupt, but would you be more specific about what you seek permission for? Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. If you can't find it on our listing of the best email writing tools, you won't need it. WebTo ask for clarification politely, it is essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. 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?. 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. Many people presenting or relaying information are not aware of how others are processing what they are saying, leading them to talk above others and preventing them from digesting what is being presented. For the record can be a great phrase to use if youre looking to substitute the phrase just to clarify. Q&A Answertion. Did you mean to send me? In our personal & professional life, while talking to someone, we all have situations when we dont clearly understand what the other person is saying. For instance you may use: Both are polite colloquial usage. Could/Would/Can you please walk me through that again? Asking somebody to clarify something implies that you understand the broad strokes but want more detail about a particular topic. I learned that if two players sack cooperatively, each defender gets 0.5 sacks in their statistics. Thank them for the interview May I request you share your queries again? Similarly, we live in a fairly distracting world where a variety of daily concerns coupled with the endless distractions present in any environment impede our already strained processing capabilities. Recovering from a blunder I made while emailing a professor. Could we connect on this issue before the meeting at 2PM tomorrow? Can/Would/Could you be a bit/little more specific, please? It makes the phrase sound a little bit softer and a little more polite. Have you asked for permission to use my laptop? Do roots of these polynomials approach the negative of the Euler-Mascheroni constant? "That sounds really good. Both phrases can be used to ask for more information or to give more information when someone requests it of you. Its my bad that I dont quite understand you. Can/Could/Would you please repeat your take on that? It can help ensure that whatever youre saying does not come across in a way that is not intended. Reframing your request into "for the greater good" makes it much more digestible to follow up with. ?" Likewise, you need to be able to process that information through your working memory and convert it into relatable information relative to your short-term and long-term memory. Am I right in thinking that what youre meaning by that is, If Im understanding correctly, you think that the most important factor in this situation is Is that correct?, I think I need more information because Im not fully understanding the part that you were saying about, So I think I understand that you believe X would be the best solution? Read on below the template to learn why each section is important, and for additional tips and useful information so you can make sure that your email comes across well. If you have received a cost-of-living salary increase, keep your email short and polite. We use cookies to analyze site performance and deliver a better experience for visitors. In a situation where you feel as though you dont have all of the information, whether thats because you missed part of it or it just seems as though theres a gap, using just so I understand gives you the time to go over what you do know and lets others fill in any missing pieces. It appears there has been a breakdown in communication. When someone says anything, they usually give you information about something or someone. Admit if you are unsure about what the speaker means. Both the past and present tense are acceptable. You can edit and adapt these as required to get the necessary information. Here is an example of how to use can you elaborate professionally. ?" Use the expressions below to address these potentially problematic situations smoothly and professionally. Can you elaborate further on what the new training program will include? Now, here are 9 clarification email samples and a template to show you how to apply these insights. ". No worries! If that's the case, this job offer clarification email sample is for you. Heres how. Whether you're meeting with a foreign client, seeing a doctor, or taking an online English lesson, there will be times when you don't understand what the other person just said. GET IN TOUCH 514.551.0493 | [emailprotected]. Scenario #1: When one person is dominating the conversation. Should You Be Home When Contractors Are Working. When it comes to the proper format for asking a clarification question or seeking clarification, the key is to use basic rules of etiquette. Make sure that you dont point fingers or blame the other person for not conveying information well enough. Do I understand correctly that you want to reduce the funds for the IT department before changing the security system? Could you please repeat the date of the event? Here is a great example of how to use just to be clear professionally in an email. Other opinions. Closed Question: So, you felt Bobs approach was too disruptive? I'm keen to make a decision this week, so can you provide me with answers by (date)? 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. One example is when you are presented with new content that you havent had a chance to review prior to a presentation or conversation. Closed Question: Was this experience what you expected? It felt awesome. Have you just suggested calling him when he is home? A slightly more polite version of this phrase is "I'm not sure what you mean by . I beg your pardon. Depending on the nature of your clarification request email, you may want to attach some information, including links, or add attachments. May I ask you to say the things again that you requested earlier? As a freelance consultant, she also supports companies and executives in overcoming communication challenges. Hi Jessica, Thanks for your email. This sample clarification email to a client will help you get the details and data you need positively and professionally. Reframing your request into "for the greater good" makes it much more digestible to follow up with. Sample Letters for Request Bank To Clarify Service Charge. If you're facing a deadline, you should always include details about when you need to receive answers. Usually the information you seek is written on the card. Heres an example of how to use for the record in a professional manner. You see! Using phrases such as Im sorry or Excuse me when asking for clarification indicates a participatory tone that simply seeks better understanding. An example is provided below on the professional usage of just so I understand. Master 101 frequent business situations with our eBook! Thanks for clearly letting me know your opinion; I value whatever you suggest. Flowrite turns your instructions into ready-to-send emails and messages across your browser. It sometimes happens that interviewers may need extra information after your meeting. Would it be possible for me to hear from you about this again? Its my bad. Asked by Anonymous Mar 3, 2023. Would you please repeat what you wanted permission for? Browse other questions tagged, Start here for a quick overview of the site, Detailed answers to any questions you might have, Discuss the workings and policies of this site. Have you wanted me to send the emails first, then attend the meeting? If you preorder a special airline meal (e.g. Whoops! You should not blame someone else if you dont understand the other persons words. When you ask someone to "elaborate on" something, you're asking them to explain it in greater detail, which is another good way to ask for clarification. We can split clarification emails into three parts. I dont quite catch what you said. WebIn American English, the word actually is often used to clarify a misunderstanding. When you need to be a little more authoritative in your professional emails, whether thats to set boundaries or correct instructions that were wrong, just to be clear is perfect for those situations where you want to be straightforward and concise. Ask for repetition. So, to understand the request, on many occasions, you may need to ask for clarification. State what the speaker has said as you understand it, and check whether this is what they really said. Further, using the conditional mood also indicates that you are not directing the conversation. There are more ways to give and receive clarification while still maintaining your professionalism. Ah, I see. 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. How important it may become at times to ask for clarification. Establish your credibility. You must not behave and speak in a formal setting as you do in an informal one. Manage meeting requests like a pro with our in-depth guide to writing the best meeting request emails. Please let me know how we can avoid this in the future. If the instructions someone sends you are about as clear as furniture assembly instructions written in something other than your native language, youll need to ask for help. Could I ask for clarification on? Youve explained the situation and asked for clarification so that you can solve a problem. 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. One great way to do this is to ask a lot of open-ended questions. Write emails and messages faster across Google Chrome. Ask for help: If youre struggling to understand a mechanic, dont hesitate to ask for help. The modal verb Would is the most formal word with which you can form the politest expressions. It lets everyone know you mean business and that they better listen to what youre about to tell them because you probably wont repeat yourself. WebTo write a thank you email for a salary increase, express your gratitude calmly, then ask for clarification on the terms of the increase if you have not already received them. Would you please repeat the instructions for the team again? WebWhen using clarification follow these guidelines to help aid communication and understanding. 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. Practice the mechanics: Many of the mechanics youll encounter in a raid can also be found in other activities. Show respect. As AI is developing and being used in different sectors, writers are also using them to avoid unexpected grammatical errors or typos. You can do this by saying "I don't understand" or "I'm not sure I Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused. When you are tasked with providing necessary information to someone, but would like to keep things brief and formal, you can use this phrase to cut to the chase. 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. Sometimes we need clarification when we want to get a better handle on where others are coming from. When It Is Considered Rude to Ask for Clarification, Theres Never a Time to Not Politely Seek Clarification. Looking for an email writer generator, email helper, or email correction app? It also makes it easier for the recipient to go through them line-by-line and answer them. Learn how to write request emails that get results with our in-depth guide. Lets explore the three tenants of how to ask for clarification politely. So, how do you politely ask for clarification on someones request in English? ", Another way to ask for clarification is to let the other person know that you didn't understand them. Remember that no matter in which context you are, politeness is the key to a good conversation. If students have never learned how to politely ask for clarification, youll need to teach them courteous English expressions and when to use them. If you've been asked to clarify some details, this clarification email reply sample provides a straightforward template to follow. 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. Here are some examples: What would you like to see as the final deliverable? WebShe knocked on the door politely and announced, "Mr.Lyman, its Lind." "Come in.Whats up?" Do not give orders or blackmail your colleagues. No one likes to say those words for fear of sounding slow on the uptake. Lindsays approach has been profoundly influenced by her work with Indigenous organizations, her experience as a parent to two neurodivergent children, and the premature loss of both of her parents. Will you please mention again the name of the items you requested from the store? Asking for clarification. Now, well learn useful expressions to ask someone to clarify instructions. I admire that you clarified your position. All Rights Reserved. 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 To ask for clarification politely, it's essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. I didnt quite catch it. Each intonation 2. Both phrases can be used interchangeably, as they have the same meaning. WebClarifying What You Heard, Asking Someone to Repeat Themselves, and Confirming Your Understanding Communication Skills: Express Yourself Clearly Get Your Number Stress Right: How to Pronounce Numbers Clearly in English The Power of Pitch: Change Your Tone for Better Stress and Intonation in English Now, lets see some English expressions that you can use to respond to someones clarification. . Use one of our 9 samples to ask for clarification in an email. If you are wanting to ask for clarification politely, blaming the other person is definitely not the way to go. Either. Should I begin with each page Mark adds to the FINAL folder, or do you want me to wait until the SEO changes are complete and youd had a chance to go over everything? Ask for specific examples. Dont make it sound bad. You have been successfully subscribed to the Grammarly blog. If we want to double-check, we can ask for clarification. However, if you dont understand someones question, you should ask for clarification and answer accordingly. Are you aware of how your tone of voice conveys different messages? Before you do this exercise, its a good idea to check out our information on intonation and stress. How to interrupt politely in a meeting. If your clarification request isn't covered in the list above, or if you'd prefer to create your own, then use this clarification email template. Be polite in the choice of your words, tone, and body language. Most of the time, your clients are not responding because: They got busy and haven't found the time to write their response to you. Dont cross the line. Show that you appreciate them taking the additional time to review the email, and describe how the information will help achieve the goal. There was an error and we couldn't process your subscription. Would you be able to confirm some details? Here are a few examples of the types of sentences that you could use to ask for clarification politely at work: These types of clarification questions will help ensure that everyone has the same understanding of the situation. 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.