Scenario #1: When one person is dominating the conversation. Let me know if you need any further clarification or assistance. However, if the instruction is unclear, you may need to ask for clarification so you can take medicine properly. Avoid guilt. 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 Are there tables of wastage rates for different fruit and veg? Suppose you just received a prescription from the doctor after the diagnosis. This is a standard clarification email that you can use to request some answers from anyone, including a colleague, customer, client, or professional. For more on this topic, I invite you to subscribe to my YouTube channel where I post many helpful videos for leaders and teams who want to unlock the secrets to stress-free communication. Amid the four types of questions commonly asked, clarification questions are probably the most understandable and justifiable in any circumstance. Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. 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. On many occasions, you may not receive the exact information for many reasons. If you preorder a special airline meal (e.g. "Thanks so much for your feedback on. GET IN TOUCH 514.551.0493 | [emailprotected]. In our personal & professional life, while talking to someone, we all have situations when we dont clearly understand what the other person is saying. Simply say thank you and move on. [1] 2 Be polite but direct in asking about the starting salary. It can be used very formally, or it can be used with a subtle undertone of disdaine and attitude while still providing information. Huh? 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. 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. Would approach A or B be more helpful here? Q: I've tried that. 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? In such a business situation I would offer my business card and politely ask: "Do you have a card I could have?" Once someone clarifies something for you, you must appreciate their effort. Will you please share the total amount again? Janet opened the door and smiled slightly. "Thank you for getting back to me so quickly". ?" Now, lets see some English expressions that you can use to respond to someones clarification. Below is a helpful structure, and some phrases, to help you politely get what you want with your clarification emails. So, how do you politely ask for clarification in English? 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 Thanks, Tannia, for your support! Chris G. I am sorry, but I couldnt get your question. Leadership communication skills to elevate team performance. Otherwise, you'll have established a better understanding for what you need to know, and you can put that to the researchers. Now, lets see a short conversation between a doctor and a patient that involves asking for clarification. Why do many companies reject expired SSL certificates as bugs in bug bounties? Both phrases can be used to ask for more information or to give more information when someone requests it of you. What happens if three defenders sack together? Be polite while asking. Heres how. It sometimes happens that interviewers may need extra information after your meeting. Use open, non-directive questions - if appropriate. Managing conflicts or misunderstandings through email communication can be challenging. Niaj A A Khan is an ESL Instructor with over 7 years of experience in teaching & developing resources at different universities and institutes. Still, you may feel like youre being rude if you ask for clarification on the schedule, format, and personal perceptions of those in attendance. You can edit and adapt these as required to get the necessary information. 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. You see! Well! 1 vote 1 answer 18 views. Rule #4: Raise your (virtual) hand. WebPolite Speech Requesting Clarification Postscript. 2021 Collaborative Solutions | Lead your teams effectively without losing yourself. Here are some useful expressions to ask someone to clarify their position or opinion. Am I right in thinking that what youre meaning by that is, If Im understanding correctly, you think that the most important factor in this situation is Is that correct?, I think I need more information because Im not fully understanding the part that you were saying about, So I think I understand that you believe X would be the best solution? May I ask you to clarify your position on this? He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. . Have you wanted me to send the emails first, then attend the meeting? If you in a polite way? State what the speaker has said as you understand it, and check whether this is what they really said. Join a clan or community group specifically for raid novices, or ask your team members for clarification. To clarify, you want, correct? Please repeat it for me to understand it clearly. Always consider the setting: formal and informal. I couldnt follow what you said about it. For your information, a pamphlet will be provided detailing the new workflow system. Recovering from a blunder I made while emailing a professor. If you can't find it on our listing of the best email writing tools, you won't need it. Learn more about us here. I am sorry, but I couldnt follow what you said. What do I do? Perhaps you find yourself asking for clarification a few times and it feels awkward when you still dont agree with the person. The phrase can you elaborate is a great alternative for when you want to ask for clarification. Can you assist me with this question by tomorrow afternoon? Next, state your current understanding of the situation. Thank you for your time and for helping me to clarify these questions. Did you mean to send me? May I request you share your queries again? Sometimes, using just to clarify doesnt convey how you feel when youre asking for more information. Do not give orders or blackmail your colleagues. 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. Youve explained the situation and asked for clarification so that you can solve a problem. You can use the following template to make sure that you have effective communication for professional emails or personal emails. Sometimes, even though were confused, it is simply because we have not been informed of all of the information that is being presented. Request to clarify a Freedom of Information request to. Simply say thank you and move on. Browse other questions tagged, Start here for a quick overview of the site, Detailed answers to any questions you might have, Discuss the workings and policies of this site. Use open-ended questions to guide the discussion. You got this! When It Is Considered Rude to Ask for Clarification, Theres Never a Time to Not Politely Seek Clarification. Q&A Answertion. Sorry I couldnt follow you earlier. Doctor: Youre welcome. You can do this by saying "I don't understand" or "I'm not sure I Learn useful English phrases for discussion and debate. writing effective letters Public World. I'll be in touch if I require anything else. This article will introduce you to some pointers on how to request clarification via email. Asking somebody to clarify something We can split clarification emails into three parts. Here is some language that you can use. Use this template to diplomatically seek clarification whenever you get one of these rambly, not-exactly-sure-of-what-this-means email. It can help ensure that whatever youre saying does not come across in a way that is not intended. 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. Katie Holmes is a senior author at everyday-courtesy.com with over 15 years of experience in marketing and psychology. How do you get out of a corner when plotting yourself into a corner. Its also a great way to allow someone else to add more information they may have forgotten. requesting help on restructuring project of our shared client SkyTechlet's discuss details over call or video conferenceyour advice invaluable. Show that you appreciate them taking the additional time to review the email, and describe how the information will help achieve the goal. The clarification email format should be no surprise if you're already used to writing professional messages. Doubling the cube, field extensions and minimal polynoms. Another way to ask for clarification is to let the other person know that you didn't understand them. Can you rephrase the instructions, please? [3]. Both of them are fine in any conversation of an official nature, but are not exclusively limited to just the two. Sorry to interrupt, but would you be more specific about what you seek permission for? "If I understand you correctly " is a slightly more formal way to check your understanding. Asking for clarification or something else is fast using artificial intelligence. Would/Could you please say that again for me/us? 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. Refresh if you want to submit another email. What I meant was. Conversations, email dialogues, and even text messages progress best when everyone has the same understanding. Would you please repeat it? 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. How to follow the signal when reading the schematic? If someone is kind enough to provide the answers you need when you need them, it's polite to say thank you. Now, well learn useful expressions to ask someone to clarify instructions. Make sure to add a sign-off (thanks, kind regards, etc. 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. 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 May I ask you to explain your observation about the new design further? Establish your credibility. Ask for help: If youre struggling to understand a mechanic, dont hesitate to ask for help. Ask for specific examples. 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). In most cases, you can save face by solving your own problem without asking a question to clarify. WebRule #1: Start by asking for permission to chime in. 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. Something went wrong while submitting the form. When you need to be a little more authoritative in your professional emails, whether thats to set boundaries or correct instructions that were wrong, just to be clear is perfect for those situations where you want to be straightforward and concise. Practice the mechanics: Many of the mechanics youll encounter in a raid can also be found in other activities. Congratulations on getting a job offer! Ask for repetition. Would you please repeat what you wanted permission for? Asking for clarification email to boss sample Recently, an American client told me that shes really impressed with my English. Just be sure to fill in all the gaps, and proofread before sending. How can I ask, "Why did you send me this link?" So what can you say instead? How to ask for help via email Use a clear, direct subject line. May I know what you just wanted permission for.? 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. Using phrases such as Im sorry or Good Communication Makes You More Valuable. We can say the exact same thing in two entirely different tones of voice. Oops! Sorted by: 2. It also depends on how big the work is, but I think that generally asking for clarification is never a bad idea. Is that/this ok if I ask/request you to clarify it? 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. Open Question: How will you be an asset to the company if we hire you? This allows the presenter to complete his or her thought so that you are completely informed. Can/Would/Could you be a bit/little more specific, please? Before you do, ask yourself why you think the authors did not provide enough details. 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. Could/Would/Can you explain what you mean by this? What To Include In An Email For Clarification Thank The Sender For The Information State Your Current Understanding Acknowledge that you need clarification. Do roots of these polynomials approach the negative of the Euler-Mascheroni constant? You might say: Nows not the time to use the command form of any verb; dont say things like Say it again, slower! or You need to give us more examples! Those are clear indications that you are not being polite. Scenario #2: When the conversation gets sidetracked. Thank you for providing the information about [Topic X]. Im sorry, but I couldnt follow your question. Kind regards, (Your name) 3. Here are some tips on asking for favors: Be direct but polite. You can also get another perspective by asking someone else to review the information. Such individuals would then feel lost or misinformed simply because they missed when information was presented, making clarification necessary. In each case, you want to push for the information you need in a polite way to avoid damaging your relationships. How legitimate is the phrase "from which one to choose"? For the record can be a great phrase to use if youre looking to substitute the phrase just to clarify. Writing a letter for clarification is easy if you follow our advice. 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. rev2023.3.3.43278. Sorry, but I didnt quite catch your statement. Make your email easy to read. A good way is to summarize what you have understood and didnt. About an argument in Famine, Affluence and Morality, A limit involving the quotient of two sums. 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? What is the correct way to screw wall and ceiling drywalls? Ah, I see. Katie is a passionate digital nomad working on her first book on the art of communication. These experiences have taught Lindsay great lessons about the power of excellent people skills that extend well beyond her professional expertise. 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. Sometimes there can be misunderstandings about dates and times for meetings and appointments. The customer will ask you questions, and you will provide polite responses Q: My phone won't start. Have you requested to send me the MS Word file or the PDF? Asking for clarification shows that youre attentive and that you care enough to make sure you thoroughly understand what youve been told. If thats the case, it's best to get straight into business. ." 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. To ask for clarification politely, it is essential to use open-ended clarification questions stated in a neutral and inquisitive tone of voice. I am sorry, but I couldnt follow your suggestions. Further, using the conditional mood also indicates that you are not directing the conversation. Clarity is the key to effective communication. How to agree/disagree. Lets move on. Today, we'll introduce 10 polite English expressions for requesting clarification. Heres an example of how to use for the record in a professional manner. You want me to explain the whole thing all over again? This dynamic can create a frustrating feedback loop for both parties. Looking for an email writer generator, email helper, or email correction app? It will keep everything flowing smoothly with the new website launch. Contacting researchers for clarification is good practice. The first thing you should do is thank the sender for providing the information. Write emails and messages faster across Google Chrome. However, Could is less polite, and Can is the least polite word among these three. Then, if youre still not clear on something, its time to write an email to ask for clarification. As we are independently owned, the recommendations made here are our own. 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 Recent surveys suggest that over 6 million children under the age of 17 in the US alone exhibit some form of attention deficit disorder. Try to use them in real life and master them. Introduction. WebSo, if you need some clarification for what you just heard, you can use phrases like Sorry, what did you mean by that? Sample Letters for Request Bank To Clarify Service Charge. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. 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. *Its better to use Past, not Present. Use a call to action to clarify the next steps. Use one of our 9 samples to ask for clarification in an email. Now it is time to write your clarification email. Grammarly For MS Office - HereS How to Ask For Clarification from So My deadline for this project is [date]. 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. As a freelance consultant, she also supports companies and executives in overcoming communication challenges. Are you aware of how your tone of voice conveys different messages? If you have received a cost-of-living salary increase, keep your email short and polite. We use cookies to analyze site performance and deliver a better experience for visitors. So, if you are confused about understanding what the other person said in a conversation, you should ask for clarification. Your new game-changing quick reference tool is just a click away. Bullet points are a great way to share information, Insert your questions/clarification request. A thesaurus is your friend here. The second makes you sound more informed. Show enthusiasm for the position. 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. If the instructions someone sends you are about as clear as furniture assembly instructions written in something other than your native language, youll need to ask for help. If students have never learned how to politely ask for clarification, youll need to teach them courteous English expressions and when to use them. These samples tackle many common reasons you may need clarification. Thank 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. 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. By clicking Accept all cookies, you agree Stack Exchange can store cookies on your device and disclose information in accordance with our Cookie Policy. If you do, always explain what they are and why they matter. 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. 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.