Teacher Amanda Rauh

Hey! Do you ESL learners (or even native speakers!) ever struggle with finding more creative ways to ask "What?" or communicate that you didn't quite understand a point made during a discussion or meaning? Here are my top 5 favorite ways to ask "What?" and gain more understanding, in a professional way. Let me know what your favorites are in the comments!! : )

1. What do you mean by ... ?
Sometimes, the best way to ask someone for clarification is to directly ask them, "What do you mean by ... ?" A slightly more polite version of this phrase is "I'm not sure what you mean by …."
· Sorry, what do you mean by that?
· I'm not sure what you mean by "formal dress code." Could you show me some examples?

2. I don’t understand.
Another way to ask for clarification is to let the other person know that you didn't understand them. You can do this by saying "I don't understand" or "I'm not sure I understand."
· Sorry, I don't understand your question. Would you mind rephrasing it for me?
· Hmm, I'm not sure I understand. Could you explain that again?

3. I’m (a little) confused.
Instead of saying "I don't understand," you can also just say "I'm (a little) confused."
· Sorry, I'm confused. Should I take this medicine three times a day or four?
· I'm a little confused about what you just said.

4. If I understand you correctly ...
"If I understand you correctly ..." is a slightly more formal way to check your understanding.
· So if I understand you correctly, you feel that you were unfairly fired from your job?
· Let me see if I understand you correctly. You're saying that this policy would create 10 million new jobs?

You'll also hear native speakers say "If I understood you correctly." Both the past and present tense are acceptable.

5. Could you please elaborate (on that)?
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.
· Sorry, could you elaborate, please?
· Could you elaborate on that for me? I'm not sure I follow.

Please comment on which of these phrases you find most helpful to get better clarification in your English discussions or meetings. Looking forward to your feedback! : )