Something went wrong while submitting the form. Always consider the setting: formal and informal. Would/Could you please repeat what you said about the issue? These formats will use formal speech to indicate that you are simply trying to clarify what was said rather than to distract or disrupt. Let me make myself clear, everyone must follow all of the new health and safety guidelines in accordance with the CDC. 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. 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. Could you please explain the whole process of doing this? 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. You may not respond or help them accordingly if you dont understand. For example, you could write, "Hello, Ms. WebHow do you politely ask for something? Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. However, on many occasions, you may also need to use closed questions as well. he asked, feigning a concerned expression. During these periods, it is best to ask a question as this will allow you to digest whatever information has been presented. 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, 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. 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. Both phrases can be used to ask for more information or to give more information when someone requests it of you. Sorry? Whether you are in a formal or informal situation, politeness is the key to a good conversation. In the next section of the email, you want to clearly outline your goals, any important deadlines, and next steps. 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. Once again, clarification would be necessary. Remember that no matter in which context you are, politeness is the key to a good conversation. Make sure that you actually need clarification. Supercharge your communication with Flowrite. I dont quite catch what you said. How To Request Clarification Via Email Template. Closed questions always lead to a yes or no answer, and hence, gather limited information. Usually the information you seek is written on the card. Rule #3: Mind the timing and the relevancy. I'm keen to make a decision this week, so can you provide me with answers by (date)? This shows you have a desire for more information and it sounds as though you are genuinely invested in the current topic at hand. Could you please vs Would you please? WebYour clarification email includes everything I need to progress. In most cases, you can save face by solving your own problem without asking a question to clarify. When someone says anything, they usually give you information about something or someone. ? Start with a polite greeting It's polite to start written correspondence with a greeting. However, Could is less polite, and Can is the least polite word among these three. WebRule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in. Recent surveys suggest that over 6 million children under the age of 17 in the US alone exhibit some form of attention deficit disorder. How to interrupt politely. Would you mind saying what type of permission, written or verbal, you need? Even if you dont quite understand what they are trying to communicate, express your thanks to them for their time and effort. So, how do you do it? Have a conversation before sending an email. Use the expressions below to address these potentially problematic situations smoothly and professionally. 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. Greet your reader. However, if the instruction is unclear, you may need to ask for clarification so you can take medicine properly. In formulating an answer, you may find they did provide enough details. They allow the person to expand on the topic rather than giving a simple yes or no response. Is that right? You'll also hear native speakers say "If I understood you correctly." Invest in your future by investing time and effort to improve your communication skills. May I ask you to share your suggestions again? There are different ways you can ask for clarification in English. ", Instead of saying "I don't understand," you can also just say "I'm (a little) confused. Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. No one likes to say those words for fear of sounding slow on the uptake. ", Another way to say "I don't understand" is to say "I don't follow" or "I'm not following. Learn useful English phrases for discussion and debate. Heres what it might look like. Sorted by: 2. Bullet points are the most effective way of listing out your questions. WebPolite Speech Requesting Clarification Postscript. *this is very polite) Can you explain what you mean? Use open, non-directive questions - if appropriate. Closed Question: So, you felt Bobs approach was too disruptive? 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 Heres an example of just to make sure were on the same page being used professionally. Lindsay Lapaquette, M.Sc. Can you assist me with this question by tomorrow afternoon? We can say the exact same thing in two entirely different tones of voice. I am available for a phone call or meeting if that would be helpful. Looking for an email writer generator, email helper, or email correction app? Im sorry, but I couldnt follow your question. So, if there is any confusion about instructions, make sure you ask for clarification. Could/Would you explain it again, please? WebWhen using clarification follow these guidelines to help aid communication and understanding. Write emails for work the way you would a standard letter. How to ask for help via email Use a clear, direct subject line. Your help will go a long way in helping to resolve [issue]. It only takes a minute to sign up. [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. Have you ever found it challenging to interrupt someone to express your opinion, make suggestions, or ask for further information? Will you please repeat the standard operating procedure of this machine? ?" 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. [Survey] Is It Rude to Say Please and Thank You at the Same Time? Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. 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?. Click here for 1:1 customized coaching programs that will help you achieve your career goals faster. Katie is a passionate digital nomad working on her first book on the art of communication. If you need any other information, please let me know. How would you explain it to me?" 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. Scenario #2: When the conversation gets sidetracked. Include your contact details and how they can get in touch with you. I wonder if you can say it in a different way for me/us. Asking clarifying questions shows that youre actively listening and want to understand. For example, if you seek clarification, then you can ask: Could you please explain how to politely ask for clarification? Thank them for the interview I am available for a phone call or meeting if that would be helpful or more convenient for you. Thank you for sending me information about (product/service). Good Communication Makes You More Valuable. Thank you for providing the detailed information about [Topic X]. Can you please be a bit more specific about the price? English Language & Usage Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for linguists, etymologists, and serious English language enthusiasts. You need to create a clarification email. 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. (A) works with middle managers who want to communicate authentically so they can effectively lead their teams without losing themselves. 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.. 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. I am sorry, but I couldnt follow what you said. Here's a helpful thank you template for email clarification. Asking somebody to clarify something Don't worry: Asking for clarification is easy. By utilizing the appropriate language and tone, these delicate situations can be navigated smoothly and professionally. Site design / logo 2023 Stack Exchange Inc; user contributions licensed under CC BY-SA. Join a clan or community group specifically for raid novices, or ask your team members for clarification. Then refer to a specific aspect: Could you please explain once again why A is so important for B?. The preferred synonym to just to clarify is just to make sure were on the same page. We can split clarification emails into three parts. What is the correct way to screw wall and ceiling drywalls? New Questions. 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. And that's how to end an email asking for clarification. In formulating an answer, you may find they did provide enough details. 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. Thus we need to ask them for further clarification without feeling awkward. Is it correct to use "the" before "materials used in making buildings are"? Ultimately, who should be responsible for completing. 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! 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. Next, state your current understanding of the situation. (meaning to say it in another way) is appropriate. What To Include In An Email For Clarification Thank The Sender For The Information State Your Current Understanding Acknowledge that you need clarification. 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. Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search. Show that you appreciate them taking the additional time to review the email, and describe how the information will help achieve the goal. 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. WebThe preferred ways to ask are could you please provide me with the details, could you provide the details, and do you mind sharing the details with me? These questions get You must not behave and speak in a formal setting as you do in an informal one. If you do, always explain what they are and why they matter. Do you mind if I ask you to mention his name again? Rule #2: Apologize for interrupting. Please let me know if you need any other information. Either. Just say: "I'm impressed. Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. Therefore, when you request someone to clarify something, you may use modal verbs to sound polite. Some time in your elementary school life, you may have had a teacher who said, The only stupid question is the one you dont ask. That stock teacher phrase couldnt make things any clearerits okay to ask for an explanation if you dont understand. Would you be able to confirm some details? You got this! Each intonation will convey very different messages. Ask for repetition. Using phrases such as Im sorry or Messaging your boss or manager is slightly different from the formal format we use above. 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. Did you ask about the total turnover for this year? Its an easy phrase used to help break the barrier of communication and make sure everyone has the same information. Now well learn some very useful expressions that you can use to politely ask for clarification in English. Then what happens if three players make a sack together? Be specific about what you expect to be clarified. WebDepends on the clarification. ?" Sometimes we need clarification when we want to get a better handle on where others are coming from. 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. Other opinions. What do I do? Its my bad. Your new game-changing quick reference tool is just a click away. Lets take a look at Asking For Clarification ENGLISH FORUMS. Flowrite turns your instructions into ready-to-send emails and messages across your browser. 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. Thank you for explaining the question to me. Follow the format, keep things clear, and always include your contact details! What do you think about somebody/something. Could we connect on this issue before the meeting at 2PM tomorrow? 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. I wish you good health. Otherwise, you may not do it properly what you are instructed for. Below is a helpful structure, and some phrases, to help you politely get what you want with your clarification emails. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. Here are some expressions to ask for clarification when someone asks for your permission. How to politely ask for clarification on a person's designation? If you've been asked to clarify some details, this clarification email reply sample provides a straightforward template to follow. Can you please tell me again what document you requested? Asking somebody to explain something implies that you don't know anything about the topic and want the person to teach you. Learn how to write request emails that get results with our in-depth guide. Ask Question Asked 6 years, 9 months ago Modified 6 years, 9 months ago Viewed 3k times 1 This is a ", Telling your conversation partner what you think they meant is an effective way to ask for clarification. Looking for clarification? If you preorder a special airline meal (e.g. Finally, there are some individuals who have trouble paying attention, to begin with, whether because of ADD or ADHD. Try These Expressions in a Real Conversation. Open Question: When did you first notice that it was a challenge working with him? Just be sure to fill in all the gaps, and proofread before sending. 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). There are more ways to give and receive clarification while still maintaining your professionalism. Practice the mechanics: Many of the mechanics youll encounter in a raid can also be found in other activities. Would you prefer if we go with approach A or B in this situation? Otherwise, you'll have established a better understanding for what you need to know, and you can put that to the researchers. Heres how. Its also a great way to allow someone else to add more information they may have forgotten. Asking for clarification. In doing so, you will be perceived as non-accusatory and therefore, not threatening. It can be helpful to ask questions about the 5 Ws and H in this section. When you want to ask for more clarification on something, but dont want to seem rude, do I understand allows you to ask for more information and gives others the ability to correct you if necessary without sounding as though they are berating or belittling you. Sorry, one more time? 1 Answer. It would be best if you took it in the morning before the meal. Martin holds a Masters degree in Finance and International Business. Establish your credibility. Would you please repeat what you said about our new project? Thank you for providing the information about [Topic X]. This sample clarification email to a client will help you get the details and data you need positively and professionally. 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. In doing so, you will be perceived as non-accusatory and therefore, not threatening. In this example, you're a job seeker; this is how you reply to a recruiter asking for clarification. You can also get another perspective by asking someone else to review the information. 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. requesting help on restructuring project of our shared client SkyTechlet's discuss details over call or video conferenceyour advice invaluable. (We told you it was easy, now see our examples!). Web1. 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. Say what the problem is first. Each intonation 2. If I understand you correctly, you want Carolyn to add her SEO changes to the documents marked PENDING in the Google Drive. 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. 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. It can help ensure that whatever youre saying does not come across in a way that is not intended. Well! Huh? 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 You should only ask for clarification if you really feel it requires clarification. It sometimes happens that interviewers may need extra information after your meeting. 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. Sometimes we zone out, but sometimes we just dont understand. Introduction. There are other words you might use in this case as well. 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. 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. ESL Advice receives compensation from companies or individuals for recommending their products. There are different ways you can ask for clarification in English. It's a good idea to spell out precisely what information you need. Master 101 frequent business situations with our eBook! So that we can action your request promptly, could you please provide some more context and clarification around this? Could you rephrase what you just said to me about the problem? You can use the following template to make sure that you have effective communication for professional emails or personal emails. A good way is to summarize what you have understood and didnt. Please let me know how we can avoid this in the future. If we want to double-check, we can ask for clarification. Its highly likely you'll need to clarify details with a client at some stage. A reference has been provided on how to professionally use for your information. Dont make it sound bad. Could/Would/Can you be a bit clearer about it? ". How to ask for something in an email with 9 examples, Request for meeting email with samples and templates. Sorry if I was unclear. Asking for clarification email to boss sample Moreover, it will imply that you think you already know what the answer is, even though you need clarification! ?" Youre a busy person, so here is a template you can use right away. Then Mark will make the copy changes and move the documents to a drive folder marked FINAL. Be polite in the choice of your words, tone, and body language. Well! One great way to do this is to ask a lot of open-ended questions. 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. Thanks, Tannia, for your support! Chris G. The first thing you should do is thank the sender for providing the information. Would you please repeat it? Would you like me to switch off all the lights? Here is a great example of how to use just to be clear professionally in an email. Asking somebody to explain something implies that you don't know anything about the topic and want the person to teach you. Scenario #1: When one person is dominating the conversation. link to 50 Polite Ways to Interrupt Someone in English. I want to request you to repeat it, may I? Depending on the nature of your clarification request email, you may want to attach some information, including links, or add attachments. Writing invoice emails can be tricky and they are often an area where you may need more information and clarification. Just to make sure were on the same page, all reports are to be completed by Tuesday. We can say the exact same thing in two entirely different tones of voice. Would/Could you please elaborate on it for me? Be clear about your current understanding. 2. Simply say thank you and move on. 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. Or rather, try to bridge your current understanding so that you can move forward. 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. Welcome to Grammarhow!We are on a mission to help you become better at English. 2021 Collaborative Solutions | Lead your teams effectively without losing yourself. Another way to ask for clarification is to let the other person know that you didn't understand them. Every day, we get engaged in conversations for different purposes. Open Question: How will you be an asset to the company if we hire you? 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. 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. Why are trials on "Law & Order" in the New York Supreme Court? How important it may become at times to ask for clarification. The difference between these two phrases is only in how they are grammatically structured, with clarify being a verb and clarification being a noun. You mean you need some books from the library, isnt it? Make your email easy to read. In English, the respondent would immediately understand that you need more than a simple "yes" or "no" answer. When someone asks you to re-explain a complicated task, your first inclination is probably to say, Wait, what? To clarify, the key is to keep things simple, provide all details you need, and remember you're dealing with a real person. Rule #3: Mind the timing and the relevancy. Janet opened the door and smiled slightly. Email format guide 6 examples & templates. The best way to ensure that you come across as polite is if you use Please and Thank You when speaking. "Come in.Whats up?" Open-ended questions leave space to fully explore another persons perspective. Please repeat it for me to understand it clearly. 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. Thanks for the effort you made to explain it again. Katie Holmes is a senior author at everyday-courtesy.com with over 15 years of experience in marketing and psychology. You have been successfully subscribed to the Grammarly blog. To determine how to write a meeting request email, follow these steps: 1. Otherwise, you'll have established a better understanding for what you need to know, and you can put that to the researchers. Once youve established your current understanding and whats unclear to you, you can ask questions that will help your reader clarify the information. WebIn American English, the word actually is often used to clarify a misunderstanding.
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