Do you ever worry that misunderstandings due to language are slowing your team down?

As a leader, knowing how to confidently ask for clarification in English is essential for keeping everyone on the same page and ensuring clear, productive communication.

To help you with that, here are some go-to phrases that will make seeking clarification in any professional setting a breeze:

1. "Can you repeat that slower?"
   This simple yet effective request allows speakers to adjust their pace, giving you a better chance to grasp the information being conveyed.

2. "What do you mean by...?"
   Asking for clarification on specific terms or phrases demonstrates active listening and a commitment to understanding the speaker's message in depth.

3. "I didn’t catch the last thing you said."
   Acknowledging when you've missed something encourages speakers to reiterate, ensuring nothing crucial gets lost in translation.

4. "If I understood you correctly..."
   Paraphrasing what you've understood shows respect for the speaker's message and provides an opportunity for correction if there's been a misunderstanding.

5. "I just want to confirm. Are you saying that…?"
   Seeking confirmation helps to validate your interpretation of the speaker's words, fostering clarity and alignment.

6. "I'm not quite following. Could you clarify what you mean by...?"
   Expressing confusion openly demonstrates a willingness to learn and encourages speakers to elaborate further.

7. "I'm not entirely clear on what you mean. Could you explain it differently?"
   This polite request for an alternative explanation allows for varied approaches to understanding complex concepts.

8. "Can you please elaborate on what you mean by…?"
   Inviting speakers to provide more detail encourages thorough explanations, leaving less room for ambiguity.

9. "I need some clarification on this point. Could you help me better understand what you mean by...?"
   Directly stating your need for clarification signals a proactive approach to ensuring clear communication.

10. "Could you give me an example to clarify?"
    Requesting concrete examples helps to contextualize abstract ideas, making them easier to comprehend and apply.

11. "Could you help me understand what you mean by that?"
    This open-ended question invites speakers to offer insights or explanations tailored to your level of understanding.

12. "I want to make sure I understand correctly..."
    Verifying your understanding before proceeding reinforces accuracy and prevents potential misunderstandings down the line.

Incorporating these phrases into your communication toolkit empowers you to navigate conversations with confidence and clarity, fostering stronger professional relationships and driving successful outcomes.

Remember, effective communication is a skill that can be honed over time, and by actively seeking clarification, you demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and mutual understanding in the workplace.

Keep Learning

Don’t stop here—take your communication skills even further with these 10 Essential Business English Phrasal Verbs that will boost your confidence and fluency. Click here to dive in!

Also, download your free audio training of the three must-know leadership communication skills for non-native speakers here.

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