Thank you for providing the detailed information about [Topic X]. When you are in a situation where you need to provide clarification on something, but you also need to be stern, using the phrase let me make this clear is perfect for getting your point across while correcting any misinformation someone may have had. Im not quite clear on a few things and I want to make sure were on the same page. Now, its time to close the email out on a positive note. It starts with a simple subject line. We can say the exact same thing in two entirely different tones of voice. Therefore, 03 Mar 2023 13:44:40 Which form is more polite and more acceptable for correspondence? If someone is kind enough to provide the answers you need when you need them, it's polite to say thank you. To clarify, the key is to keep things simple, provide all details you need, and remember you're dealing with a real person. 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. If students have never learned how to politely ask for clarification, youll need to teach them courteous English expressions and when to use them. Have you requested to send me the MS Word file or the PDF? Would you mind repeating the name of the place? Sometimes we zone out, but sometimes we just dont understand. Well learn some expressions to ask for clarification on someones questions. Formal Sorry, would you mind repeating that? What To Include In An Email For Clarification, Ask Specific Questions To Clarify Information, How To Write an Email Asking For Interview Feedback, How to Write an Email About Dropping a Class, How to Write an Email to A Real Estate Agent, How to Write an Email Introducing Yourself, How to Write an Email to A Roofing Company. If it's critical you get a response, you can offer to follow up. 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. Did you ask me to close the main door or this door? In formulating an answer, you may find they did provide enough details. Heres an example to show you how it works: Dear Ms. Browne, Could you please clarify whether this is correct? This FREE e-course will help you let go of your need to keep other people happy and step into your personal power. Something went wrong while submitting the form. Here is an example of how to use can you elaborate professionally. Also known as clarification letters, clarification emails are used to get the information required to move forward. Did you say that you want to go there alone? * Could you please be more specific? I admire that you clarified your position. You'll learn how to structure email clarifications, what to include, and see how it works with 9 examples and a template. Perhaps you find yourself asking for clarification a few times and it feels awkward when you still dont agree with the person. You can end on a positive note by thanking the other person for their time and consideration of their clarification request. Janet opened the door and smiled slightly. Be polite while asking. Thank you for explaining the question to me. The best way to ensure that you come across as polite is if you use Please and Thank You when speaking. I appreciate your time and your help in clarifying this question. WebSo, if you need some clarification for what you just heard, you can use phrases like Sorry, what did you mean by that? Would approach A or B be more helpful here? May I request further clarification of instruction number 5? Closed Question: Did you always feel that it was a challenge working with him? 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. Sample Letters for Request Bank To Clarify Service Charge. I didnt quite catch it. How To Request Clarification Via Email Template. 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. You got this! Youd like to ask for clarification, but youre not sure how in a polite way. To create a follow-up email, follow these steps: 1. Email format guide 6 examples & templates. 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. To determine how to write a meeting request email, follow these steps: 1. Its highly likely you'll need to clarify details with a client at some stage. Below is an example of how to use do I understand professionally. Do roots of these polynomials approach the negative of the Euler-Mascheroni constant? Simply say thank you and move on. In such situations, it is highly probable that someone will wish to ask for clarification. Once again, clarification would be necessary. 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. Would you mind saying what type of permission, written or verbal, you need? Asking for clarification or something else is fast using artificial intelligence. Supercharge your communication with Flowrite. You can use this any time further clarification is needed. Sorted by: 2. So, to understand the request, on many occasions, you may need to ask for clarification. So, how do you politely ask for clarification on someones request in English? Theres an emergency you need to deal with." Scenario #2: When the conversation gets sidetracked. Rule #2: Apologize for interrupting. Would you please repeat it? Request to clarify a Freedom of Information request to. WebRule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in. Either way, there is a high probability that youve been in a conversation where you need clarification. Read more about Martin here. Sometimes we need clarification when we want to get a better handle on where others are coming from. If you'd like to send in a quote for the article, please share your answer to the following question and explain your reasoning behind it. Now, lets see some English expressions that you can use to respond to someones clarification. It also allows for a wide range of expression as the tone it is said in can add more meaning to the phrase. When someone asks you to re-explain a complicated task, your first inclination is probably to say, Wait, what? 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. These experiences have taught Lindsay great lessons about the power of excellent people skills that extend well beyond her professional expertise. 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. Styling contours by colour and by line thickness in QGIS. "That sounds really good. I am available for a phone call or meeting if that would be helpful or more convenient for you. Use a call to action to clarify the next steps. [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. Well! Using the phrase just so I understand is a great alternative if you are confused, astounded, amazed, or in disbelief in regards to the information or instructions you have been given. Would you please repeat what you wanted permission for? I am sorry, but I couldnt get your question. Doctor: Oh, sure. 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. If you have received a cost-of-living salary increase, keep your email short and polite. It can be used very formally, or it can be used with a subtle undertone of disdaine and attitude while still providing information. I beg your pardon. See if the information makes sense to someone else. May I ask you to clarify the matter for me/all of us? What To Include In An Email For Clarification Thank The Sender For The Information State Your Current Understanding Acknowledge that you need clarification. It would be best if you took it in the morning before the meal. ". He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Your help will go a long way in helping to resolve [issue]. Make sure to add a sign-off (thanks, kind regards, etc. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. rev2023.3.3.43278. Huh? 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. One great way to do this is to ask a lot of open-ended questions. 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. 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. There are times when we ask for suggestions from the people surrounding us. Reframing your request into "for the greater good" makes it much more digestible to follow up with. Can/Would/Could you be a bit/little more specific, please? Could/Would/Can you be a bit clearer about it? Its my bad that I dont quite understand you. Let me make myself clear, everyone must follow all of the new health and safety guidelines in accordance with the CDC. Niaj A A Khan is an ESL Instructor with over 7 years of experience in teaching & developing resources at different universities and institutes. So that we can action your request promptly, could you please provide some more context and clarification around this? I was just making sure you had received all of the current information regarding the upcoming project. Write a clear subject line, or respond directly to the email you wish to clarify. Will you please share the total amount again? May I ask you to clarify your position on this? WebPolite Speech Requesting Clarification Postscript. No matter where you are, maybe at home, the office, or somewhere else, you need to respond to questions. I couldnt follow what you said about it. Why dont people respond? 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. We hope that our clarification email guide provides some simple guidelines to follow. In doing so, you will be perceived as non-accusatory and therefore, not threatening. Connect and share knowledge within a single location that is structured and easy to search. This allows the presenter to complete his or her thought so that you are completely informed. Needing clarification is not a bad thing, and understanding To ask for clarification politely, it's essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. Whether you are in a formal or informal situation, politeness is the key to a good conversation. Lets take a look at "Thanks so much for your feedback on. Although these questions are more direct, as long as they relate to a topic that has been already mentioned, they are understandable points for clarification. Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused. Email structure and phrases for clarification Heres an example of just to make sure were on the same page being used professionally. As we are independently owned, the recommendations made here are our own. Grammarly For MS Office - HereS How to Ask For Clarification from So Do I understand correctly that you want to reduce the funds for the IT department before changing the security system? Both are fine options, but if we're being pedantic, they mean slightly different things. However, on many occasions, you may also need to use closed questions as well. Please reload the page and try again. This phrase indicates that you are clearly trying to be polite, as please and thank you are reserved for polite, formal speech. 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. And that's how to end an email asking for clarification. The best answers are voted up and rise to the top, Not the answer you're looking for? I appreciate your help. Master 101 frequent business situations with our eBook! May I ask you to say the things again that you requested earlier? Watch the video: Only 1 percent of our visitors get these 3 grammar questions right 10 Better Ways To Say Thank You For Clarifying In Emails, 11 Better Ways To Say No Worries In Professional Emails, 9 More Polite Ways To Say I Dont Care (Professional), 9 Better Ways to Say Just to Confirm in an Email, 9 Other Ways to Say Im Good At on a Resume, 10 Polite Ways to Say No Visitors after Surgery, 11 Best Ways to Say Im Here for You to a Loved One, 10 Professional Ways to Say I Am Not Feeling Well. 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. . Looking for an email writer generator, email helper, or email correction app? Be clear about your current understanding. If I understood you correctly, you would like me to Could you please clarify what you meant by? I beg pardon, but can you please repeat what you said about the new product launch? How to ask somebody for explanation politely, We've added a "Necessary cookies only" option to the cookie consent popup, Polite way to suggest talking about something. Both the past and present tense are acceptable. I wish you good health. Effective communication, in particular, is a soft skill that plays a crucial role in career advancement. Here's an example showing how Flowrite can write a formal request for you from a few instructions: Clarification emails are simple to write as long as you stick to the structure and focus on the outcomes. Introduction. May I request you share your queries again? Practice the mechanics: Many of the mechanics youll encounter in a raid can also be found in other activities. When you ask someone to clarify something for you, it suggests that you are following what the person is saying and understand the majority or all of the key points, but you need more details on a certain point. Make sure that you dont point fingers or blame the other person for not conveying information well enough. May I? Can I? and Could I? are three of the most common expressions in English used to ask for permission. Similarly, we live in a fairly distracting world where a variety of daily concerns coupled with the endless distractions present in any environment impede our already strained processing capabilities. Include your contact details and how they can get in touch with you. Try to use them in real life and master them. Usually the information you seek is written on the card. If we want to make sure that someone has understood, you can request confirmation that someone has 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. In most cases, you can save face by solving your own problem without asking a question to clarify. 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. Once someone clarifies something for you, you must appreciate their effort. in a polite way? If someone orders you or gives instructionsto do something, its essential to fully understand what they say. 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. The meaning of both phrases is the same and used interchangeably. Thanks for Its an easy phrase used to help break the barrier of communication and make sure everyone has the same information. Sorry to interrupt, but would you be more specific about what you seek permission for? Our goal is to create English lessons that are easy to understand for everyone. Site design / logo 2023 Stack Exchange Inc; user contributions licensed under CC BY-SA. Sometimes, even though were confused, it is simply because we have not been informed of all of the information that is being presented. Sorry I couldnt follow you earlier. Thank you for providing the information about [Topic X]. 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. Also, you could talk to the person to clarify before sending a formal email, because sometimes its difficult to convey the true meaning through an email. 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 Can you please tell me again what document you requested? Admit if you are unsure about what the speaker means. I am sorry, but did you say he is the companys CEO? I was pleased to receive your job offer earlier today. Thanks for sending over your directions for implementing the new website copy. What happens if three defenders sack together? Use open-ended questions to guide the discussion. Sorry, what was that? A great example of why this is a good synonym phrase to use when you want more information about something, but you dont want to come off as intimidating or rude by using just to clarify. Moreover, it will imply that you think you already know what the answer is, even though you need clarification! Next, state your current understanding of the situation. A salutation followed by the hiring manager's name is common. Writing, grammar, and communication tips for your inbox. If that's the case, this job offer clarification email sample is for you. Could I ask for clarification on? So if you ask someone to "break down" something they said, you ask them to explain it part by part. WebRule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in. WebIn American English, the word actually is often used to clarify a misunderstanding. Lindsay Lapaquette, M.Sc. This is a standard clarification email that you can use to request some answers from anyone, including a colleague, customer, client, or professional. Dont make it sound bad. What To Do Before You Write an Email For Clarification. For ESL learners, interrupting someone while someone is talking can Linguix vs. Grammarly: Which AI Writing Assistant Is Value for Money in 2023? It's a good idea to spell out precisely what information you need. Then, if youre still not clear on something, its time to write an email to ask for clarification. In the next section of the email, you want to clearly outline your goals, any important deadlines, and next steps. Conversations, email dialogues, and even text messages progress best when everyone has the same understanding. I am sorry, but I couldnt follow your words.? Is it correct to use "the" before "materials used in making buildings are"? In formulating an answer, you may find they did provide enough details. May I know what you just wanted permission for.? Join a clan or community group specifically for raid novices, or ask your team members for clarification. Close the email politely and thoughtfully. She should leave her changes as suggestions. Lets explore the three tenants of how to ask for clarification politely. how to politely and natively reply an email and ask question, Looking for a word attributing the state of revealing the past. 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?. 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. If you can't find it on our listing of the best email writing tools, you won't need it. However, if the instruction is unclear, you may need to ask for clarification so you can take medicine properly. This shows you have a desire for more information and it sounds as though you are genuinely invested in the current topic at hand. You can also get another perspective by asking someone else to review the information. Mr. Khan is also a passionate writer working on his first book, "Learn English at Ease. It also makes it easier for the recipient to go through them line-by-line and answer them. Using phrases such as Im sorry or Excuse me when asking for clarification indicates a participatory tone that simply seeks better understanding. Type a command in the box below. 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. Follow the format, keep things clear, and always include your contact details! 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. Please let me know how we can avoid this in the future. Not sure if this was meant for me. Now, here are 9 clarification email samples and a template to show you how to apply these insights. Let me see if I understand this; you want to create a proposal which would limit our available staff positions for hire? 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.