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. . Open Question: What was it about Bobs approach that seemed disruptive to you? Below is a helpful structure, and some phrases, to help you politely get what you want with your clarification emails. Have you wanted me to send the emails first, then attend the meeting? It starts with a simple subject line. Its my bad that I dont quite understand you. Follow the format, keep things clear, and always include your contact details! Once someone clarifies something for you, you must appreciate their effort. There are a few simple steps to follow when youre looking for further explanation. Just to make sure were on the same page, all reports are to be completed by Tuesday. So that we can action your request promptly, could you please provide some more context and clarification around this? 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. So what can you say instead? Could we connect on this issue before the meeting at 2PM tomorrow? Would you please repeat the instructions for the team again? Recently, an American client told me that shes really impressed with my English. If we want to double-check, we can ask for clarification. Why do many companies reject expired SSL certificates as bugs in bug bounties? In such situations, the concern is simply that one needs to be polite when asking a clarification question so that a question can be asked rather than reformatting an impolite question. The difference between these two phrases is only in how they are grammatically structured, with clarify being a verb and clarification being a noun. Do not give orders or blackmail your colleagues. The most common cause for a phone not starting is that the battery is dead. Let me know if you need any further clarification or assistance. Sometimes we need clarification when we want to get a better handle on where others are coming from. Try These Expressions in a Real Conversation. There are so many online AI writing assistants that can offer you We are a team of ESL teachers writing about state-of-the-art tips and advice for learners and teachers of English as a second language. Use open-ended questions to guide the discussion. Establish your credibility. Another way to ask for clarification is to let the other person know that you didn't understand them. If that's the case, this job offer clarification email sample is for you. Tannia is a very authentic person and is able to provide clients powerful and versatile communication tools that can be employed in daily conversations, in negotiations or in meetings. If you have received a cost-of-living salary increase, keep your email short and polite. 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. 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. How legitimate is the phrase "from which one to choose"? 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. In each case, you want to push for the information you need in a polite way to avoid damaging your relationships. Thank you for providing the information about [Topic X]. I am available for a phone call or meeting if that would be helpful. A salutation followed by the hiring manager's name is common. Using this phrase, you can include all the instructions youve been given and make sure they are correct. Would you prefer if we go with approach A or B in this situation? Have a conversation before sending an email. Thank you for explaining the question to me. Make your email easy to read. Learn more about us here. Put the question in the first or second sentence. Sorted by: 2. Once again, clarification would be necessary. Click here for 1:1 customized coaching programs that will help you achieve your career goals faster. Did you ask me to close the main door or this door? Flowrite turns your instructions into ready-to-send emails and messages across your browser. WebOne option is to politely explain that you didnt understand a part of the message, and ask for the speaker to repeat all of it. ncdu: What's going on with this second size column? Learn useful English phrases for discussion and debate. Moreover, it will imply that you think you already know what the answer is, even though you need clarification! 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!) Both phrases can be used interchangeably, as they have the same meaning. An example is provided below on the professional usage of just so I understand. How to ask for help via email Use a clear, direct subject line. I want to request you to repeat it, may I? Janet opened the door and smiled slightly. "That sounds really good. The meaning of both phrases is the same and used interchangeably. Then what happens if three players make a sack together? The clarification email structure is still the same, but we can assume your boss is already on top of the details. For the record can be a great phrase to use if youre looking to substitute the phrase just to clarify. 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 It felt awesome. Now, lets see some English expressions that you can use to respond to someones clarification. I admire that you clarified your position. 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. Use the expressions below to address these potentially problematic situations smoothly and professionally. 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. DeFrank." Can you clarify some details for me, please? 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. "In response to your request for. Say that you didnt understand rather than saying that the other person could not clarify it. It also allows for a wide range of expression as the tone it is said in can add more meaning to the phrase. Such individuals would then feel lost or misinformed simply because they missed when information was presented, making clarification necessary. Could you rephrase what you just said to me about the problem? Usually the information you seek is written on the card. 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. Could/Would you explain it again, please? I wish you good health. It's even better if you can have conversations and get corrected by a professional English tutor! Which form is more polite and more acceptable for correspondence: For example I am do not understand something and want to get more information about it. Heres an example to show you how it works: Dear Ms. Browne, Could you please clarify whether this is correct? Just say: "I'm impressed. 1 vote 1 answer 18 views. Did you say that you want to go there alone? How would you explain it to me?" However, there can be miscommunication if information or opinion is not clearly expressed or understood. This FREE e-course will help you let go of your need to keep other people happy and step into your personal power. 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.. This sample clarification email to a client will help you get the details and data you need positively and professionally. Need help nailing down some details about a person, product, project, or appointment? Whoops! Monitoring your tone of voice is a key element of learning to ask for clarification politely. Lets explore the three tenants of how to ask for clarification politely. Asking For Clarification ENGLISH FORUMS. You got this! 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. 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. Request to clarify a Freedom of Information request to. rev2023.3.3.43278. If you have to ask again (or if you keep relying on the same person), consider approaching someone else. Have a listen: I got it. She should leave her changes as suggestions. Have you ever experienced a meeting where somebody is explaining something, but for the life of you, you cannot even begin to understand their point of view? 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. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. Here are seven phrases for using your opening lines to imply that your email is a reply or response: "Thank you for your email regarding. 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. Now, lets see a short conversation between a doctor and a patient that involves asking for clarification. Suppose you just received a prescription from the doctor after the diagnosis. Therefore, If you're facing a deadline, you should always include details about when you need to receive answers. 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. Closed Question: So, you felt Bobs approach was too disruptive? Many in attendance are often grateful that someone asks any clarification questions as they are too embarrassed to ask themselves! In fact, guessing and getting it wrong is more likely to cause problems than politely asking for more info. Can/Could/Would you give me an example, please? The clarification email format should be no surprise if you're already used to writing professional messages. Would you say that again, please? & I am afraid I didnt quite catch that. If you do feel compelled to ask before a presenter has reached a point where there is a lull in the presentation or conversation, its very important to raise your hand. A good way is to summarize what you have understood and didnt. It only takes a minute to sign up. How do you ask for clarification? One example is when you are presented with new content that you havent had a chance to review prior to a presentation or conversation. Informal Sorry, I didnt catch that. What do I do? Some people struggle to write subject lines, but the easiest thing to do is be upfront about what you want. Sometimes we zone out, but sometimes we just dont understand. However, it would be best to ask for clarification when you dont get someones statement or information. [2]. Try to use them in real life and master them. 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. 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 Well learn some expressions to ask for clarification on someones questions. 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. Please repeat it for me to understand it clearly. If you have any questions, you can reach me at (222) 222-2222. I appreciate your time and your help in clarifying this question. I'll be in touch if I require anything else. It can be used very formally, or it can be used with a subtle undertone of disdaine and attitude while still providing information. Hi Jessica, Thanks for your email. WebRule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in. It gives you an easy way to state what you mean, directly letting everyone know you are sharing pertinent information. Asking for clarification or something else is fast using artificial intelligence. "Mr.Lyman, could you come out here please? ", Another way to say "I don't understand" is to say "I don't follow" or "I'm not following. If you can't find it on our listing of the best email writing tools, you won't need it. If you still have questions about this, you can comment below. Now, lets learn some expressions that native speakers of English commonly use to ask for clarification. In most cases, you can save face by solving your own problem without asking a question to clarify. 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! You have been successfully subscribed to the Grammarly blog. So if you ask someone to "break down" something they said, you ask them to explain it part by part. 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. Be clear about your current understanding. Now it is time to write your clarification email. In this article, we'll show you how to request clarification via email. 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. WebHow do you politely ask for something? Thanks, you cared. Asking somebody to explain something implies that you don't know anything about the topic and want the person to teach you. Niaj A A Khan is an ESL Instructor with over 7 years of experience in teaching & developing resources at different universities and institutes. Here is a great example of how to use just to be clear professionally in an email. This allows the presenter to complete his or her thought so that you are completely informed. There are many situations where you might find yourself needing to ask for clarification. Provided is an example of how just making sure can be used professionally. Reframing your request into "for the greater good" makes it much more digestible to follow up with. Would you be able to help me with these questions before then? To determine how to write a meeting request email, follow these steps: 1. To clarify, the key is to keep things simple, provide all details you need, and remember you're dealing with a real person. You can use this any time further clarification is needed. These samples tackle many common reasons you may need clarification. Therefore, when you request someone to clarify something, you may use modal verbs to sound polite. Ask a question. Thank you for providing the detailed information about [Topic X]. Below is a reference example showing how let me make this clear can be used professionally. Looking for an email writer generator, email helper, or email correction app? Now, well learn some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify instructions. Im sorry, but I couldnt follow your question. Can/Would/Could you be a bit/little more specific, please? You can end on a positive note by thanking the other person for their time and consideration of their clarification request. Email structure and phrases for clarification Manage meeting requests like a pro with our in-depth guide to writing the best meeting request emails. We encounter numerous questionsin our everyday life. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. It can be helpful to ask questions about the 5 Ws and H in this section. Both the past and present tense are acceptable. Could/Would/Can you please walk me through that again? <-- This is a past question A: Try plugging your phone into the charger for an hour and then turn it on. Heres an example of just to make sure were on the same page being used professionally. We can say the exact same thing in two entirely different tones of voice. Is that right? WebPolite Speech Requesting Clarification Postscript. If it's critical you get a response, you can offer to follow up. 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. Web1. To ask for clarification politely, it is essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. Patient: Thanks, doctor. Additionally, when asking for clarification, it is not considered polite if you frame your clarification question in a critical tone. 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. Thank you for sending me information about (product/service). Heres an example of how to use for the record in a professional manner. Question and answer site. Katie is a passionate digital nomad working on her first book on the art of communication. The best questions are open-ended. I beg pardon, but can you please repeat what you said about the new product launch? Every day, we get engaged in conversations for different purposes. Would you mind telling me the whole formula in detail? Review the information to see if you missed something. Write emails & messages faster than ever with our AI writing assistant, Get the best resources for professional communication & productivity. Katie Holmes is a senior author at everyday-courtesy.com with over 15 years of experience in marketing and psychology. [3]. WebWhen using clarification follow these guidelines to help aid communication and understanding. Whether you want to clarify something for someone or you want clarification yourself, just to be clear is a great phrase to use when giving or receiving information. 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. Then Mark will make the copy changes and move the documents to a drive folder marked FINAL. Will you be a bit more specific about your experiences? There are different ways you can ask for clarification in English. Did you ask about the total turnover for this year? WebHow to Ask for Clarification Politely 1. 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? writing effective letters Public World. It can help ensure that whatever youre saying does not come across in a way that is not intended. Use one of our 9 samples to ask for clarification in an email. [1]. If your doctor gives you any instructions, you must follow them. Managing conflicts or misunderstandings through email communication can be challenging. Can you rephrase the instructions, please? Open Question: What were you expecting to experience? Read and listen to these possible responses. Asking somebody to clarify something implies that you understand the broad strokes but want more detail about a particular topic. Kind regards, (Your name) 3. Join a clan or community group specifically for raid novices, or ask your team members for clarification. Always keep in mind that the other person is not bound to clarify things again for you. Lindsay Lapaquette, M.Sc. Can you repeat the ways I have to do it? Depending on the nature of your clarification request email, you may want to attach some information, including links, or add attachments. You need to create a clarification email. . Show that you appreciate them taking the additional time to review the email, and describe how the information will help achieve the goal. Whether you are in a formal or informal situation, politeness is the key to a good conversation. Closed Question: Was this experience what you expected? The best answers are voted up and rise to the top, Not the answer you're looking for? Your submission has been received! Many of us have a gap in communication at work or with a business or provider, but writing a request for clarification can sometimes be a scary prospect. 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. So, if you are confused about understanding what the other person said in a conversation, you should ask for clarification. Generally, asking for clarification is not undesirable in most social circles, particularly during long, technical presentations in academic, educational, or professional settings. I was pleased to receive your job offer earlier today. If someone orders you or gives instructionsto do something, its essential to fully understand what they say. However, if you dont understand someones question, you should ask for clarification and answer accordingly. It also depends on how big the work is, but I think that generally asking for clarification is never a bad idea. As a former Speech-Language Pathologist, Lindsay applies her expertise in the neuroscience of communication and connection to help managers foster an environment of trust and respect in their teams, so that everyone can bring their best selves to work. To create a follow-up email, follow these steps: 1. Here are some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify their position or opinion. Do I understand correctly that you want to reduce the funds for the IT department before changing the security system? Would you please repeat what you said about our new project? May I ask you to share your suggestions again? Could you give me some more details about? See if the information makes sense to someone else. Q&A Answertion. 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. Next, state your current understanding of the situation. "Thanks so much for your feedback on. Avoid Which form is more polite and more acceptable for correspondence? When you ask a clarification question, you help to create a greater level of understanding not just for yourself but also for the speaker and those in attendance. Should You Be Home When Contractors Are Working. Sample Letters for Request Bank To Clarify Service Charge. and then say something like: Im sorry, I didnt understand what you just said.. Use ChatGPT technology to create a magic paragraph or email. link to 50 Polite Ways to Interrupt Someone in English. Im not quite clear on a few things and I want to make sure were on the same page. Greet your reader. Could you please vs Would you please? When someone expresses their opinion, you may not clearly understand what they mean or what their position about the matter is. Rule #2: Apologize for interrupting. Be specific about what you expect to be clarified. To clarify, you want, correct? If something is mentioned at the beginning of a meeting or lecture and individuals dont have sufficient time to process that information relative to additional content, or they werent paying attention, there is a high probability that such individuals will have no idea what was said previously. Whenever confusing, lengthy, or multi-part topics are presented, there is a high probability that someone will have missed some of the information shared, prompting someone to seek clarification on the topic. Could/Would/Can you be a bit clearer about it? I am sorry, but I couldnt get your question. 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. Write emails and messages faster across Google Chrome. ". In formulating an answer, you may find they did provide enough details. It would be best if you took it in the morning before the meal. Check your tone of voice. Here well see some expressions you can use to ask for clarification in English on someones statement or information. Amid the four types of questions commonly asked, clarification questions are probably the most understandable and justifiable in any circumstance. In other words, who, what, where, when, why, and how. Lets take a look at WebYour clarification email includes everything I need to progress. But can you repeat it so I can be sure about what you suggested? When It Is Considered Rude to Ask for Clarification, Theres Never a Time to Not Politely Seek Clarification. Make sure to add a sign-off (thanks, kind regards, etc. Start with an explanatory subject line Try to make the subject line of your email clear and self-explanatory. Oops! It will keep everything flowing smoothly with the new website launch. Doctor: Oh, sure. In this situation, you may need to ask them to repeat, explain or clarify their position. Could you rephrase your question, please? May I ask you to say the things again that you requested earlier? [Survey] Is It Rude to Say Please and Thank You at the Same Time? 1 Answer. If you are in a situation where you are being given a lot of information that you may not fully understand, using this phrase is a great way to get the information you need without looking like youre completely lost. Otherwise, you may not do it properly what you are instructed for. Let me see if I understand this; you want to create a proposal which would limit our available staff positions for hire? First up, here's a sample email seeking clarification. Thus we need to ask them for further clarification without feeling awkward. Its also a great way to allow someone else to add more information they may have forgotten. Lindsays approach has been profoundly influenced by her work with First Nations organizations, her experience as a parent to two children with pervasive mental health challenges, and the premature loss of both of her parents. May I know what you just wanted permission for.? My goal is to complete [Task A] by Thursday, so this information will help me to get started immediately. We use cookies to analyze site performance and deliver a better experience for visitors. By clicking Accept all cookies, you agree Stack Exchange can store cookies on your device and disclose information in accordance with our Cookie Policy. 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. For example, if you seek clarification, then you can ask: Could you please explain how to politely ask for clarification? How To Request Clarification Via Email Template. "As per your request.

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