how to ask for clarification politely

Katie Holmes is a senior author at everyday-courtesy.com with over 15 years of experience in marketing and psychology. Write emails for work the way you would a standard letter. Something went wrong while submitting the form. Depending on the nature of your clarification request email, you may want to attach some information, including links, or add attachments. Rule #3: Mind the timing and the relevancy. We usually stress the word actually to signal that were going to explain what we really meant. Avoid This phrase allows you to use simple words with no room for misinterpretation. What To Do Before You Write an Email For Clarification. [1]: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/bring-science-home-speaking-memory/, [2]: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html, [3]: https://hbr.org/2015/03/relearning-the-art-of-asking-questions. Follow the format, keep things clear, and always include your contact details! One great way to do this is to ask a lot of open-ended questions. 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. 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. Could/Would you explain it again, please? Here is a great example of how to use just to be clear professionally in an email. 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. Before you write an email to clarify something, take another look to review the information and see if there is something that you were missing. I was pleased to receive your job offer earlier today. What To Include In An Email For Clarification Thank The Sender For The Information State Your Current Understanding Acknowledge that you need clarification. Could/Would you please put it differently so that it becomes easy for me to understand? 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. However, it would be best to ask for clarification when you dont get someones statement or information. Im not sure when youd like me to start adding the copy to the development website. During these periods, it is best to ask a question as this will allow you to digest whatever information has been presented. Do not give orders or blackmail your colleagues. Could/Would/Can you explain what you mean by this? I beg your pardon. link to Linguix vs. Grammarly: Which AI Writing Assistant Is Value for Money in 2023? Therefore, when you request someone to clarify something, you may use modal verbs to sound polite. 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. WebA listener can ask for clarification when they cannot make sense of the speaker's responses. In such situations, it is highly probable that someone will wish to ask for clarification. Lets take a look at some common cases that can come up in our work and personal lives and consider the best ways to respond. 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. A great way to ask for clarification is by using do I understand, allowing you to go over the information by showing youre paying attention and asking for clarity. Question and answer site. You want me to explain the whole thing all over again? This dynamic can create a frustrating feedback loop for both parties. It gives you an easy way to state what you mean, directly letting everyone know you are sharing pertinent information. ESL Advice receives compensation from companies or individuals for recommending their products. Well! You should ask for an apology first, as you already have missed what the person said earlier. The best questions are open-ended. You can use this any time further clarification is needed. Refresh if you want to submit another email. "That sounds really good. Therefore, By speaking solely in terms of your own perspective, your listener will be more open to further discussion. Asking somebody to explain something implies that you don't know anything about the topic and want the person to teach you. This sample clarification email to a client will help you get the details and data you need positively and professionally. Closed Question: So, you felt Bobs approach was too disruptive? Sorry to interrupt, but would you be more specific about what you seek permission for? So, how do you politely ask for clarification in English? 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. All Rights Reserved. Would approach A or B be more helpful here? You can contact me on (insert details). (meaning to say it in another way) is appropriate. It also depends on how big the work is, but I think that generally asking for clarification is never a bad idea. 2. Just to clarify can be a phrase some view as intimidating, as they may feel you are doubting them or acting as though you are above them. Would you mind saying what type of permission, written or verbal, you need? Read and listen to these possible responses. Lindsay Lapaquette, M.Sc. In each case, you want to push for the information you need in a polite way to avoid damaging your relationships. 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. 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. Heres an example of just to make sure were on the same page being used professionally. Other opinions. 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. Do I understand correctly that you want to reduce the funds for the IT department before changing the security system? Now, its time to close the email out on a positive note. So, you must ask for clarification if you dont understand them. How to follow the signal when reading the schematic? (A) works with middle managers who want to communicate authentically so they can effectively lead their teams without losing themselves. Writing invoice emails can be tricky and they are often an area where you may need more information and clarification. Well learn some expressions to ask for clarification on someones questions. Why do many companies reject expired SSL certificates as bugs in bug bounties? I am sorry, but I couldnt follow your suggestions. Is it possible to elaborate on what you said right now? Im sorry, but I couldnt follow your question. In doing so, you will be perceived as non-accusatory and therefore, not threatening. If you "break something down," you separate it into its parts. The first thing you should do is thank the sender for providing the information. Manage meeting requests like a pro with our in-depth guide to writing the best meeting request emails. Needing clarification is not a bad thing, and understanding Using indicator constraint with two variables. Just to make sure were on the same page, all reports are to be completed by Tuesday. Formal Sorry, would you mind repeating that? WebPolite Speech Requesting Clarification Postscript. 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. To obtain clarification, you have to truly want to understand the other persons point of view. If we want to make sure that someone has understood, you can request confirmation that someone has Review the information to see if you missed something. *Its better to use Past, not Present. 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. Your help will go a long way in helping to resolve [issue]. Taking into account that GPT-3 models have no parameter that enables memorization of past conversations, it seems the only way at the moment to "memorize" past conversations is to include past conversations in the prompt. ", 50 Polite Ways to Interrupt Someone in English. 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. Here are some examples: What would you like to see as the final deliverable? Can you please tell me again what document you requested? Would/Could you please repeat what you said about the issue? Patient: Thanks, doctor. Is it possible to rotate a window 90 degrees if it has the same length and width? When someone says anything, they usually give you information about something or someone. Do roots of these polynomials approach the negative of the Euler-Mascheroni constant? Let me see if I understand this; you want to create a proposal which would limit our available staff positions for hire? 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. Establish your credibility. Webcrazyyy how u come into my mentions accusing me of shit continue to rant abt me on ur page and when i politely ask for clarification u block me didnt even need to interact w me if i piss u off that much. A tendency to avoid asking too many questions leads many people to avoid asking for clarification altogether because of a fear of being perceived as disruptive. You mean you need some books from the library, isnt it? Thanks, you cared. Otherwise, you'll have established a better understanding for what you need to know, and you can put that to the researchers. Use one of our 9 samples to ask for clarification in an email. Indicate that this is a request to set up a meeting in the subject line by including words like discussion', 'meeting' or schedule'. WebSo, if you need some clarification for what you just heard, you can use phrases like Sorry, what did you mean by that? Could/Would/Can you be a bit clearer about it? When asking for clarification, it is essential to choose an appropriate time, such as a Q&A session after a presentation. Now pretend I don't know anything about how that works. When someone expresses their opinion, you may not clearly understand what they mean or what their position about the matter is. For instance you may use: Both are polite colloquial usage. You can do this by saying "I don't understand" or "I'm not sure I Finally, there are some individuals who have trouble paying attention, to begin with, whether because of ADD or ADHD. What is the correct way to screw wall and ceiling drywalls? Email format guide 6 examples & templates. Be polite while asking. Could you please explain the whole process of doing this? WebGeneral rules on how to politely interrupt in a meeting Rule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in Rule #2: Apologize for interrupting Rule #3: Mind the timing and the relevancy Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand How to interrupt politely in a meeting Scenario #1: When one person is dominating the conversation Using phrases such as Im sorry or If I understood you correctly, you would like me to Could you please clarify what you meant by? If you have received a cost-of-living salary increase, keep your email short and polite. 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. Can you go over this area again just so I understand the new changes you want implemented? Asking clarifying questions shows that you're actively listening and want to understand. Asking for clarification email to boss sample However, if you dont understand someones question, you should ask for clarification and answer accordingly. Such individuals would then feel lost or misinformed simply because they missed when information was presented, making clarification necessary. Let me make myself clear, everyone must follow all of the new health and safety guidelines in accordance with the CDC. However, Could is less polite, and Can is the least polite word among these three. Recent surveys suggest that over 6 million children under the age of 17 in the US alone exhibit some form of attention deficit disorder. Reframing your request into "for the greater good" makes it much more digestible to follow up with. Did you ask about the total turnover for this year? Let me know if you need any further clarification or assistance. So, do you really think this will be a profitable deal? Be specific about what you expect to be clarified. Welcome to Grammarhow!We are on a mission to help you become better at English. The difference between just to clarify and just for clarification is fairly small. How do you get out of a corner when plotting yourself into a corner. 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. Now, lets see some English expressions that you can use to respond to someones clarification. 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. Each intonation 2. Both the past and present tense are acceptable. Simply say thank you and move on. 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. Open-ended questions leave space to fully explore another persons perspective. Be polite in the choice of your words, tone, and body language. Sorted by: 2. These experiences have taught Lindsay great lessons about the power of excellent people skills that extend well beyond her professional expertise. Always consider the setting: formal and informal. rev2023.3.3.43278. We can split clarification emails into three parts. Would you mind sharing the suggestion again? Kind regards, (Your name) 3. You may not respond or help them accordingly if you dont understand. Rule #3: Mind the timing and the relevancy. Make sure that you actually need clarification. 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. ?" ?". Will you please mention again the name of the items you requested from the store? About an argument in Famine, Affluence and Morality, A limit involving the quotient of two sums. You can do this by saying "I don't understand" or "I'm not sure I understand. This article breaks down the process of writing request emails for information, documents, contact details, favors and more. Thank you for providing the information about [Topic X]. Its highly likely you'll need to clarify details with a client at some stage. For the record, I would like it known I brought this issue to light weeks before it was a problem. In formulating an answer, you may find they did provide enough 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. Below is a reference example showing how let me make this clear can be used professionally. There are other words you might use in this case as well. Make your email easy to read. Could you rephrase your question, please? "Come in.Whats up?" For ESL learners, interrupting someone while someone is talking can Linguix vs. Grammarly: Which AI Writing Assistant Is Value for Money in 2023? he asked, feigning a concerned expression. Why are trials on "Law & Order" in the New York Supreme Court? We can say the exact same thing in two entirely different tones of voice. You can use this reference on how let me see if I understand this is used professionally. [2]. 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. Learn how to write request emails that get results with our in-depth guide. For your information, a pamphlet will be provided detailing the new workflow system. 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, Can/Would/Could you be a bit/little more specific, please? 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 I understand you correctly " is a slightly more formal way to check your understanding. Niaj A A Khan is an ESL Instructor with over 7 years of experience in teaching & developing resources at different universities and institutes. By clicking Accept all cookies, you agree Stack Exchange can store cookies on your device and disclose information in accordance with our Cookie Policy. Greet your reader. WebIn American English, the word actually is often used to clarify a misunderstanding. To avoid that loop, start by explaining what you do understand and ask whether you have it right. For many people, asking for clarification is incredibly embarrassing, while others may find themselves disrupting the flow of the conversation in an attempt to clarify a statement only to receive scorn from those around them. Click here for 1:1 customized coaching programs that will help you achieve your career goals faster. Is that/this ok if I ask/request you to clarify it? Use the expressions below to address these potentially problematic situations smoothly and professionally. Type a command in the box below. Not doing so and beginning to speak while the presenter is still speaking is seen as very rude in just about any formal setting. DeFrank." Just say: "I'm impressed. Doctor: Oh, sure. Thank you for sending me information about (product/service). Its an easy phrase used to help break the barrier of communication and make sure everyone has the same information. Thank you! Tips Start with Dear and the persons title and name. Here are some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify their position or opinion. Say what the problem is first. Using this formal speech helps to indicate that you are sincere in your desire to understand what the speaker is saying, which is the basis for asking for clarification. WebScore: 4.2/5 (13 votes) . Would you be able to help me with these questions before then? For example, something like: Write an email to my boss asking for a day off of work. Be polite, and use languages that focus the situation on you and not the other person. The phrase just making sure is a great alternative to just to clarify, as it is more relaxed. Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused. Be clear about your current understanding. Sometimes, using just to clarify doesnt convey how you feel when youre asking for more information. If your doctor gives you any instructions, you must follow them. Either. If you preorder a special airline meal (e.g. If you want the person you are talking with to give you a longer explanation or additional detail, its perfectly okay to interrupt them to ask for Very often, a presenter will use this period to summarize whatever information has been presented, particularly if a question seeks clarification of a specific topic, so asking a clarification question will help to guide the lecturers attempt to explain what was presented. Could you give me some more details about? In our personal & professional life, while talking to someone, we all have situations when we dont clearly understand what the other person is saying. She should leave her changes as suggestions. In the next section of the email, you want to clearly outline your goals, any important deadlines, and next steps. It can be used very formally, or it can be used with a subtle undertone of disdaine and attitude while still providing information. For example, a potential new employer may ask a candidate for clarification on details about a previous role. This shows you have a desire for more information and it sounds as though you are genuinely invested in the current topic at hand. Congratulations on getting a job offer! Could I ask for clarification on? Good Communication Makes You More Valuable. 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). Im glad that you specifically explained the issue. Not sure if this was meant for me. WebTo ask for clarification politely, it is essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. I beg your pardon, but have you mentioned my name as a team member for the new project? (A) works with middle managers who want to communicate authentically so they can effectively lead their teams without losing themselves. There are a few simple steps to follow when youre looking for further explanation. WebWhen you ask someone for clarification, you are asking them to say something in a different way or provide more information so that you 20 Email Expressions to Ask for Clarification So when we want to ask for clarification in English, we can use these expressions: 1 What exactly are you saying? Write emails & messages faster than ever with our AI writing assistant, Get the best resources for professional communication & productivity. Now, well learn useful expressions to ask someone to clarify instructions. So, to understand the request, on many occasions, you may need to ask for clarification. If it's critical you get a response, you can offer to follow up. ", Instead of saying "I don't understand," you can also just say "I'm (a little) confused. If such individuals are not already familiar with the technical background relative to the specific topic, those in attendance may have difficulty following along with the conversation. Sorry, what was that? Additionally, when asking for clarification, it is not considered polite if you frame your clarification question in a critical tone. WebShe knocked on the door politely and announced, "Mr.Lyman, its Lind." I have discussed several situations where you may need to ask for clarification in English. Im not sure, but did you suggest updating the software? 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. * Could you please be more specific? Of course, that's a distinction that can probably be blurred depending on exactly how you're using the words, but it might be useful to understand that they don't mean exactly the same thing. There was an error and we couldn't process your subscription. To ask for clarification politely, it is essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. It's a good idea to spell out precisely what information you need. Have you ever found it challenging to interrupt someone to express your opinion, make suggestions, or ask for further information? I admire that you clarified your position. The best way to ensure that you come across as polite is if you use Please and Thank You when speaking. 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? If someone is kind enough to provide the answers you need when you need them, it's polite to say thank you. Hi Jessica, Thanks for your email. We've outlined the process to create clarification emails. Styling contours by colour and by line thickness in QGIS. Could/Would/Can you please walk me through that again? 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. Its also a great way to allow someone else to add more information they may have forgotten. If you need extra information from a candidate, this clarification email after an interview provides the ideal structure. Janet opened the door and smiled slightly. Sorry? How to ask for help via email Use a clear, direct subject line. . Join a clan or community group specifically for raid novices, or ask your team members for clarification. The second makes you sound more informed. Learn how to format emails and get your point across in a professional manner by checking out these 6 common email formats. This allows the presenter to complete his or her thought so that you are completely informed. Could we connect on this issue before the meeting at 2PM tomorrow? Read more about Martin here. Would it be possible for me to hear from you about this again? If you're facing a deadline, you should always include details about when you need to receive answers. Here are some expressions to ask for clarification when someone asks for your permission. Informally You can simply say Sorry? or Come again? with a curious tone to ask someone for clarification. Once again, clarification would be necessary. Did you say that you want to go there alone? Please find re-attached for your convenience. Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. You can also get another perspective by asking someone else to review the information. Sorry I couldnt follow you earlier. 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. Or rather, try to bridge your current understanding so that you can move forward. When it comes to the proper format for asking a clarification question or seeking clarification, the key is to use basic rules of etiquette. I wonder if you can say it in a different way for me/us. Could you please repeat it? are the common formal ways of asking someone for clarification in English. Ultimately, who should be responsible for completing. Now, lets learn some expressions that native speakers of English commonly use to ask for clarification. Bullet points are a great way to share information, Insert your questions/clarification request. Do not give orders or blackmail your colleagues. 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. Below is an example of how to use do I understand professionally. There are different ways you can ask for clarification in English. It also makes it easier for the recipient to go through them line-by-line and answer them. Your new game-changing quick reference tool is just a click away. Get the Ebook, Succeed in 101 Situations! An example where it would be appropriate to use this phrase would be when you want to discuss a topic with someone and you check in on them and their progress to make sure they are working off of the correct information. Well! Are there tables of wastage rates for different fruit and veg? Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. Can/Could/Would you please repeat your take on that? Below is a helpful structure, and some phrases, to help you politely get what you want with your clarification emails.