How do you explain something in an email? There are different ways you can ask for clarification in English. It gives you an easy way to state what you mean, directly letting everyone know you are sharing pertinent information. Below is a helpful structure, and some phrases, to help you politely get what you want with your clarification emails. Would you say that again, please? & I am afraid I didnt quite catch that. Sometimes, using just to clarify doesnt convey how you feel when youre asking for more information. Include your contact details and how they can get in touch with you. Also, you could talk to the person to clarify before sending a formal email, because sometimes its difficult to convey the true meaning through an email. If thats the case, it's best to get straight into business. Get the Ebook, Succeed in 101 Situations! Here are some tips on asking for favors: Be direct but polite. In this situation, you may need to ask them to repeat, explain or clarify their position. WebDepends on the clarification. When it comes to the proper format for asking a clarification question or seeking clarification, the key is to use basic rules of etiquette. Your new game-changing quick reference tool is just a click away. Sometimes, you need to use a firm tone to let everyone know whos in charge and whats going on, and the phrase let me make this clear does just that. WebA listener can ask for clarification when they cannot make sense of the speaker's responses. About an argument in Famine, Affluence and Morality, A limit involving the quotient of two sums. I am available for a phone call or meeting if that would be helpful or more convenient for you. ?" (A) works with middle managers who want to communicate authentically so they can effectively lead their teams without losing themselves. And yet, we all have times in our personal and professional lives when we dont thoroughly understand what someone else is trying to tell us. [1]. On many occasions, you may not receive the exact information for many reasons. What do I do? Interrupting Politely, Interjecting Opinions, and Sharing Ideas Sorry if I was unclear. Sorry? During these periods, it is best to ask a question as this will allow you to digest whatever information has been presented. So, you must ask for clarification if you dont understand them. ", Telling your conversation partner what you think they meant is an effective way to ask for clarification. I am sorry, but I couldnt follow what you said. link to Linguix vs. Grammarly: Which AI Writing Assistant Is Value for Money in 2023? The first thing to remember when asking for clarification is that you can be honest and straightforward. How to When asking for clarification, its always best to either wait for a formal question and answer period or a pause in the flow of a presentation or conversation. Many in attendance are often grateful that someone asks any clarification questions as they are too embarrassed to ask themselves! For many people, particularly people who arent aural or visual learners, different processing preferences and capabilities make it harder for some people to keep up with conversations. You can do this by saying "I don't understand" or "I'm not sure I understand. ?" After the person clarifies themselves, you can let them know that you now understand and are thankful. Here we give you 5 tips and provide 4 example emails to help you write better help request emails. Therefore, May I ask you to clarify your position on this? (meaning to say it in another way) is appropriate. So, do you really think this will be a profitable deal? ? Once again, clarification would be necessary. Follow the format, keep things clear, and always include your contact details! Likewise, when information is presented via another medium aside from speaking, such as via text, video chat, email, or phone conversation, there is also a possibility that information will become muddled in transit and prompt someone to ask for clarification. Im not quite clear on a few things and I want to make sure were on the same page. Im sorry, but I couldnt follow your question. Hi Jessica, Thanks for your email. Asking somebody to clarify something Asking For Clarification ENGLISH FORUMS. 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 How to Politely Ask for Clarification in English ESL Advice How to Ask for Clarification Would you please repeat it? There are more ways to give and receive clarification while still maintaining your professionalism. How to agree/disagree. Is it correct to use "the" before "materials used in making buildings are"? You must not behave and speak in a formal setting as you do in an informal one. in a polite way? If you liked this post, you might also like: 7 Signs That Your Team Has a Communication Problem, The 4 Foundational Skills for Effective Communication. If someone orders you or gives instructionsto do something, its essential to fully understand what they say. In such situations, it is highly probable that someone will wish to ask for clarification. It appears there has been a breakdown in communication. Its an easy phrase used to help break the barrier of communication and make sure everyone has the same information. Always try to ask open-ended questions while asking for clarification. Our goal is to create English lessons that are easy to understand for everyone. 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). The first thing you should do is thank the sender for providing the information. Rule #2: Apologize for interrupting. Would/Could you please clarify it for me/us? How to interrupt politely in a meeting. There was an error and we couldn't process your subscription. [2]. ", Instead of saying "I don't understand," you can also just say "I'm (a little) confused. Open Question: When did you first notice that it was a challenge working with him? So, how do you politely ask for clarification in English? Therefore, when you request someone to clarify something, you may use modal verbs to sound polite. Ask Don't worry: Asking for clarification is easy. You should ask for an apology first, as you already have missed what the person said earlier. A good way is to summarize what you have understood and didnt. Should You Be Home When Contractors Are Working. How to politely ask for clarification on a person's designation? Q&A Answertion Question and answer site 10 Ways to Politely Ask for Clarification in English Whoops! Have a listen: I got it. "If I understand you correctly " is a slightly more formal way to check your understanding. The phrase can you elaborate is a great alternative for when you want to ask for clarification. Let me make myself clear, everyone must follow all of the new health and safety guidelines in accordance with the CDC. Looking for an email writer generator, email helper, or email correction app? To create a follow-up email, follow these steps: 1. If that's the case, this job offer clarification email sample is for you. WebPolite Speech Requesting Clarification Postscript. To ask for clarification politely, it's essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. When It Is Considered Rude to Ask for Clarification, Theres Never a Time to Not Politely Seek Clarification. Sorry, what was that? The clarification email structure is still the same, but we can assume your boss is already on top of the details. Here are some examples of subject lines to consider: Final report submission Clarification regarding project deadline Extension request for submitting the presentation Thank you for your support and guidance 3. ?" How to Ask for Clarification Politely If you've been asked to clarify some details, this clarification email reply sample provides a straightforward template to follow. How To Ask For Clarification In Email? Would it be possible for me to hear from you about this again? Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. Would approach A or B be more helpful here? 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. Each intonation will convey very different messages. Once someone clarifies something for you, you must appreciate their effort. So what can you say instead? Use open, non-directive questions - if appropriate. Say what the problem is first. While we communicate with others, we exchange information and opinion. For ESL learners, interrupting someone while someone is talking can Linguix vs. Grammarly: Which AI Writing Assistant Is Value for Money in 2023? Is that/this ok if I ask/request you to clarify it? Did you ask me to close the main door or this door? ask for clarification You'll learn how to structure email clarifications, what to include, and see how it works with 9 examples and a template. Informally You can simply say Sorry? or Come again? with a curious tone to ask someone for clarification. WebRule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in. If your doctor gives you any instructions, you must follow them. Now, lets learn some expressions that native speakers of English commonly use to ask for clarification. And that's how to end an email asking for clarification. ". Please let me know how we can avoid this in the future. Make sure that you actually need clarification. Give your reader a deadline. Your assistance will go a long way in helping to resolve [issue]. This FREE e-course will help you let go of your need to keep other people happy and step into your personal power. If you're facing a deadline, you should always include details about when you need to receive answers. Lets move on. But can you repeat it so I can be sure about what you suggested? This sample clarification email to a client will help you get the details and data you need positively and professionally. Put the question in the first or second sentence. Refresh if you want to submit another email. A thesaurus is your friend here. Could you please repeat it? are the common formal ways of asking someone for clarification in English. If you preorder a special airline meal (e.g. How can I ask, "Why did you send me this link?" 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. Use one of our 9 samples to ask for clarification in an email. When you ask someone to clarify something for you, it suggests that you are following what the person is saying and understand the majority or all of the key points, but you need more details on a certain point. that you think you already know what the answer is, so that a question can be asked rather than reformatting an impolite question, if you use Please and Thank You when speaking, https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/bring-science-home-speaking-memory/, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html, https://hbr.org/2015/03/relearning-the-art-of-asking-questions, How to Professionally Say You Didnt Answer My Question. Thank you! Alexander Stojanovic Managing conflicts or misunderstandings through email communication can be challenging. Can you please tell me again what document you requested? Would you please repeat what you said about our new project? I was just making sure you had received all of the current information regarding the upcoming project. Review the information to see if you missed something. Learn how to format emails and get your point across in a professional manner by checking out these 6 common email formats. Here's an example showing how Flowrite can write a formal request for you from a few instructions: Clarification emails are simple to write as long as you stick to the structure and focus on the outcomes. If you'd like to send in a quote for the article, please share your answer to the following question and explain your reasoning behind it. I'm keen to make a decision this week, so can you provide me with answers by (date)? 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. Useful English Phrases for Discussion and Debate. Ask for specific examples. Ask Question Asked 6 years, 9 months ago Modified 6 years, 9 months ago Viewed 3k times 1 This is a boss/manager asking for clarification on Something went wrong while submitting the form. How do you get out of a corner when plotting yourself into a corner. I am sorry, but I couldnt get your question. 2021 Collaborative Solutions | Lead your teams effectively without losing yourself. May I know what you just wanted permission for.? Write emails and messages faster across Google Chrome. 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. Admit if you are unsure about what the speaker means. Can you repeat the ways I have to do it? 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. *this is very polite) Can you explain what you mean? 03 Mar 2023 13:44:40 Try to use them in real life and master them. Could you please vs Would you please? word choice - How to ask somebody for explanation Would you mind sharing the suggestion again? Not doing so and beginning to speak while the presenter is still speaking is seen as very rude in just about any formal setting. Simply say thank you and move on. Doctor: You should take this medicine once a day. What I meant was. Would you mind saying what type of permission, written or verbal, you need? Clarification WebShe knocked on the door politely and announced, "Mr.Lyman, its Lind." . It also allows for a wide range of expression as the tone it is said in can add more meaning to the phrase. Learn more about us here. Please send your invoice for all work from our most recent contract to youremail@email.com and CC me. Contacting researchers for clarification is good practice. The meaning of both phrases is the same and used interchangeably. So if you ask someone to "break down" something they said, you ask them to explain it part by part. How to ask for help via email Use a clear, direct subject line. How To Ask For Clarification Like A Native English Speaker - Talaera Clarification Sample Letters How to Write a. If you "break something down," you separate it into its parts. Lindsay Lapaquette, M.Sc. For your information, a pamphlet will be provided detailing the new workflow system. Start with a polite greeting It's polite to start written correspondence with a greeting. Useful English Phrases for Discussion Generally, asking for clarification is not undesirable in most social circles, particularly during long, technical presentations in academic, educational, or professional settings. What To Include In An Email For Clarification, Ask Specific Questions To Clarify Information, How To Write an Email Asking For Interview Feedback, How to Write an Email About Dropping a Class, How to Write an Email to A Real Estate Agent, How to Write an Email Introducing Yourself, How to Write an Email to A Roofing Company. Amid the four types of questions commonly asked, clarification questions are probably the most understandable and justifiable in any circumstance. Then what happens if three players make a sack together? People will understand that you are simply seeking to gain the clarification that you need to better understand the situation at hand and will be more willing to engage with you. Clarity is the key to effective communication. Theres an emergency you need to deal with." 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. Finally, there are some individuals who have trouble paying attention, to begin with, whether because of ADD or ADHD. [1] 2 Be polite but direct in asking about the starting salary. Huh? Janet opened the door and smiled slightly. Before you do this exercise, its a good idea to check out our information on intonation and stress. You see! Messaging your boss or manager is slightly different from the formal format we use above. We've outlined the process to create clarification emails. Your submission has been received! Either way, there is a high probability that youve been in a conversation where you need clarification. Thank you! 10 Polite Ways To Say "Just To Clarify" (Professional Email) 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. However, on many occasions, you may also need to use closed questions as well. Do not give orders or blackmail your colleagues. May I ask you to clarify the matter for me/all of us? Thanks, Tannia, for your support! Chris G. Can you please be a bit more specific about the price? Would you be able to help me with these questions before then? Request to clarify a Freedom of Information request to. I appreciate your detailed explanation, however, I am unclear about which approach we should follow. I wish you good health. What To Include In An Email For Clarification Thank The Sender For The Information State Your Current Understanding Acknowledge that you need clarification. When asking for clarification, it is essential to choose an appropriate time, such as a Q&A session after a presentation. Sometimes, even though were confused, it is simply because we have not been informed of all of the information that is being presented. Exemplary scenarios include presenting technical manufacturing information for a specific machine, device, or appliance (Ex. politely ask Heres an example of how to use for the record in a professional manner. Lets take a look at Read and listen to these possible responses. WebTo ask for clarification politely, it is essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. The best way to ensure that you come across as polite is if you use Please and Thank You when speaking. Very often, someone might ask a question during a presentation and the presenter will respond If you wait a bit, I will explain the answer to that question.. Martin holds a Masters degree in Finance and International Business. 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 Why are trials on "Law & Order" in the New York Supreme Court? Ultimately, using this approach to obtain clarification will not only help to mediate opinions and get individuals on the same page faster it will also help prevent resentment and rifts in business relationships. Before accepting, you may want clarification about the terms and conditions or the salary. In other words, who, what, where, when, why, and how. This phrase allows you to use simple words with no room for misinterpretation. If you Asking for clarification or something else is fast using artificial intelligence. However, they become useless if you dont understand or follow them. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Would you mind repeating the name of the place? Now, well learn some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify instructions. Can/Would/Could you be a bit/little more specific, please? However, there can be miscommunication if information or opinion is not clearly expressed or understood. Make sure that you dont point fingers or blame the other person for not conveying information well enough. When a situation comes up and no one can seem to agree on what has happened, using for the record is a great way to state your information quickly and concisely or ask for someone elses information directly. Have you just said you will go to Coxs Bazar next week? How to make a GPT-3 model remember past conversations? 9 Best Ways to Politely Ask for Information in an Email - Grammarhow Sorry I couldnt follow you earlier. Otherwise, you'll have established a better understanding for what you need to know, and you can put that to the researchers. A reference has been provided on how to professionally use for your information. Be polite while asking. Would you please repeat the instructions for the team again? Youve explained the situation and asked for clarification so that you can solve a problem. Lets explore the three tenants of how to ask for clarification politely. Both the past and present tense are acceptable. Practice the mechanics: Many of the mechanics youll encounter in a raid can also be found in other activities. A slightly more polite version of this phrase is "I'm not sure what you mean by . "As per your request. Start with an explanatory subject line Try to make the subject line of your email clear and self-explanatory. When you ask someone to clarify their position, its better to ask them open-ended questions (WH questionsand Choice/Alternativequestions) rather than closed questions (Yes-Noand Tag questions).