So, if there is any confusion about instructions, make sure you ask for clarification. Could you please repeat the date of the event? Could you please explain the whole process of doing this? A salutation followed by the hiring manager's name is common. Janet opened the door and smiled slightly. Will you be a bit more specific about your experiences? If thats the case, it's best to get straight into business. We encounter numerous questionsin our everyday life. These samples tackle many common reasons you may need clarification. Scenario #1: When one person is dominating the conversation. Doctor: Youre welcome. If you have received a cost-of-living salary increase, keep your email short and polite. Always keep in mind that the other person is not bound to clarify things again for you. Q&A Answertion. Thank you for sending me information about (product/service). In fact, guessing and getting it wrong is more likely to cause problems than politely asking for more info. Can you rephrase the instructions, please? Email structure and phrases for clarification Rule #3: Mind the timing and the relevancy. Your help will go a long way in helping to resolve [issue]. Greet your reader. Therefore, when you request someone to clarify something, you may use modal verbs to sound polite. Do I need a thermal expansion tank if I already have a pressure tank? Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. Its also a great way to allow someone else to add more information they may have forgotten. 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. Tips Start with Dear and the persons title and name. Sometimes we need clarification when we want to get a better handle on where others are coming from. Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. What is the correct way to screw wall and ceiling drywalls? 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. Katie Holmes is a senior author at everyday-courtesy.com with over 15 years of experience in marketing and psychology. However, if you dont understand someones question, you should ask for clarification and answer accordingly. Dont make it sound bad. Formal Sorry, would you mind repeating that? Rule #2: Apologize for interrupting. Youd like to ask for clarification, but youre not sure how in a polite way. Thank you! By utilizing the appropriate language and tone, these delicate situations can be navigated smoothly and professionally. ", Telling your conversation partner what you think they meant is an effective way to ask for clarification. 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. 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 [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. ?" Establish your credibility. How can we prove that the supernatural or paranormal doesn't exist? For ESL learners, interrupting someone while someone is talking can Linguix vs. Grammarly: Which AI Writing Assistant Is Value for Money in 2023? Then Mark will make the copy changes and move the documents to a drive folder marked FINAL. . 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. In other words, who, what, where, when, why, and how. It makes the phrase sound a little bit softer and a little more polite. 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. It gives you an easy way to state what you mean, directly letting everyone know you are sharing pertinent information. . 1 Answer. We use cookies to analyze site performance and deliver a better experience for visitors. You got this! If that's the case, this job offer clarification email sample is for you. Needing clarification is not a bad thing, and understanding 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. Sorry, one more time? I beg your pardon, but have you mentioned my name as a team member for the new project? Could you please vs Would you please? 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. So, how do you do it? Is it possible to elaborate on what you said right now? "Thank you for getting back to me so quickly". Remember that no matter in which context you are, politeness is the key to a good conversation. After the person clarifies themselves, you can let them know that you now understand and are thankful. Is that/this ok if I ask/request you to clarify it? 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. Get the Ebook, Succeed in 101 Situations! Reframing your request into "for the greater good" makes it much more digestible to follow up with. Now, well learn some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify instructions. 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. For example, something like: Write an email to my boss asking for a day off of work. Sometimes there can be misunderstandings about dates and times for meetings and appointments. Something went wrong while submitting the form. Web1. 2021 Collaborative Solutions | Lead your teams effectively without losing yourself. Otherwise, you'll have established a better understanding for what you need to know, and you can put that to the researchers. link to Linguix vs. Grammarly: Which AI Writing Assistant Is Value for Money in 2023? Would/Could you please clarify it for me/us? I dont quite catch what you said. Below is a reference example showing how let me make this clear can be used professionally. Ask for specific examples. 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 To determine how to write a meeting request email, follow these steps: 1. WebRule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in. Here well see some expressions you can use to ask for clarification in English on someones statement or information. Grammarly stands with our friends, colleagues, and family in Ukraine, and with all people of Ukraine. How to interrupt ", Instead of saying "I don't understand," you can also just say "I'm (a little) confused. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. If its complex, technical, or there are things the manager needs to know in order to provide the clarification, then by all means write an e-mail. We thoroughly test different courses, books, learning materials, etc., and recommend only the bests. The preferred synonym to just to clarify is just to make sure were on the same page. Review the information to see if you missed something. 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. Now, lets see some English expressions that you can use to respond to someones clarification. In this example, you're a job seeker; this is how you reply to a recruiter asking for clarification. Now, lets learn some expressions that native speakers of English commonly use to ask for clarification. Your new game-changing quick reference tool is just a click away. 03 Mar 2023 13:44:40 Most often, when it comes to being perceived as polite when seeking clarification, the concern is heightened by those asking for clarification. Asking somebody to explain something implies that you don't know anything about the topic and want the person to teach you. So that we can action your request promptly, could you please provide some more context and clarification around this? For your information is a phrase you can use when you want it to be clear to all that you are going to provide information. ", Another way to ask for clarification is to let the other person know that you didn't understand them. Here's a helpful thank you template for email clarification. Both phrases can be used interchangeably, as they have the same meaning. You can do this by saying "I don't understand" or "I'm not sure I ?" Patient: Thanks, doctor. Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. Include your contact details and how they can get in touch with you. Show that you appreciate them taking the additional time to review the email, and describe how the information will help achieve the goal. Here are some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify their position or opinion. Closed Question: Did you always feel that it was a challenge working with him? I'll be in touch if I require anything else. For example, a potential new employer may ask a candidate for clarification on details about a previous role. Have you asked for permission to use my laptop? 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. 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. The clarification email structure is still the same, but we can assume your boss is already on top of the details. Make sure that you dont point fingers or blame the other person for not conveying information well enough. Now pretend I don't know anything about how that works. WebSo, if you need some clarification for what you just heard, you can use phrases like Sorry, what did you mean by that? May I ask you to share your suggestions again? You need to create a clarification email. Use the expressions below to address these potentially problematic situations smoothly and professionally. Let me see if I understand this; you want to create a proposal which would limit our available staff positions for hire? You can use this reference on how let me see if I understand this is used professionally. ". Heres an example of how to use for the record in a professional manner. The difference between just to clarify and just for clarification is fairly small. 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 Asking for clarification shows that youre attentive and that you care enough to make sure you thoroughly understand what youve been told. DeFrank." Could/Would/Can you explain what you mean by this? Avoid Email format guide 6 examples & templates. Show enthusiasm for the position. Heres what it might look like. Here are some expressions to ask for clarification when someone asks for your permission. You can use the following template to make sure that you have effective communication for professional emails or personal emails. Or rather, try to bridge your current understanding so that you can move forward. Read more about Martin here. But would you please tell me what would be the best time to take it? Have a listen: I got it. Put the question in the first or second sentence. 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. Why do many companies reject expired SSL certificates as bugs in bug bounties? By speaking solely in terms of your own perspective, your listener will be more open to further discussion. How to interrupt politely in a meeting. For your information, a pamphlet will be provided detailing the new workflow system. Always consider the setting: formal and informal. You need more information to fully understand what they mean, but the other person is getting irritated with all of your questions? 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. link to 50 Polite Ways to Interrupt Someone in English. Would/Could you please elaborate on it for me? 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 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. Make sure to add a sign-off (thanks, kind regards, etc. Such individuals would then feel lost or misinformed simply because they missed when information was presented, making clarification necessary. Every day, we get engaged in conversations for different purposes. This shows you have a desire for more information and it sounds as though you are genuinely invested in the current topic at hand. 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 Rule #3: Mind the timing and the relevancy. So, to understand the request, on many occasions, you may need to ask for clarification. You should appreciate them and give them complimentsfor doing this favor for you. Will you please mention again the name of the items you requested from the store? If you have to ask again (or if you keep relying on the same person), consider approaching someone else. Learn more about Stack Overflow the company, and our products. When someone says anything, they usually give you information about something or someone. Leadership communication skills to elevate team performance. 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. Each intonation will convey very different messages. If someone is kind enough to provide the answers you need when you need them, it's polite to say thank you. "Mr.Lyman, could you come out here please? [2]. This phrase allows you to use simple words with no room for misinterpretation. Practice the mechanics: Many of the mechanics youll encounter in a raid can also be found in other activities. 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. Ask Question Asked 6 years, 9 months ago Modified 6 years, 9 months ago Viewed 3k times 1 This is a Say that you didnt understand rather than saying that the other person could not clarify it. When asking for clarification, it is essential to choose an appropriate time, such as a Q&A session after a presentation. When someone asks you to re-explain a complicated task, your first inclination is probably to say, Wait, what? 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! Open Question: How will you be an asset to the company if we hire you? Then what happens if three players make a sack together? I appreciate your detailed explanation, however, I am unclear about which approach we should follow. Your assistance will go a long way in helping to resolve [issue]. One example is when you are presented with new content that you havent had a chance to review prior to a presentation or conversation. Once again, clarification would be necessary. My deadline for this project is [date]. First up, here's a sample email seeking clarification. There was an error and we couldn't process your subscription. If you have any questions, you can reach me at (222) 222-2222. Not sure if this was meant for me. 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. 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. Looking for an email writer generator, email helper, or email correction app? So if you ask someone to "break down" something they said, you ask them to explain it part by part. How to politely ask for clarification on a person's designation? I am available for a phone call or meeting if that would be helpful or more convenient for you. Styling contours by colour and by line thickness in QGIS. In this situation, you may need to ask them to repeat, explain or clarify their position. If it's critical you get a response, you can offer to follow up. The best answers are voted up and rise to the top, Not the answer you're looking for? Did you say that you want to go there alone? How do you ask for clarification? Be polite in the choice of your words, tone, and body language. Be clear about your current understanding. You can also get another perspective by asking someone else to review the information. Ah, I see. ", 50 Polite Ways to Interrupt Someone in English. WebPolite Speech Requesting Clarification Postscript. Can you please be a bit more specific about the price? 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. In your salutation, use the name that the person emailing you signed off with in their message, or whatever name they used when they introduced themselves if you've already met in person. [1] 2 Be polite but direct in asking about the starting salary. Its an easy phrase used to help break the barrier of communication and make sure everyone has the same information. A thesaurus is your friend here. How legitimate is the phrase "from which one to choose"? ?" Are you aware of how your tone of voice conveys different messages? Additionally, when asking for clarification, it is not considered polite if you frame your clarification question in a critical tone. Now, its time to close the email out on a positive note. You must not behave and speak in a formal setting as you do in an informal one.