Dr Ray
Business English

Meetings Etiquette
Section 5: Asking for clarification

Section 5: Asking for Clarification

In meetings and discussions, it's important to ensure that you fully understand the information being shared. Asking for clarification shows that you are engaged and willing to understand better.


Phrases for Asking for Clarification

Could you please explain that a bit more?

I'm sorry, could you repeat that?

What do you mean by...?

I'm not sure I understand. Could you clarify?

Could you give me more details on that?

Could you tell me more about that?

Can you elaborate on that point?

I'm sorry, but I'm not following. Could you explain differently?

What exactly do you mean by...?

Could you provide an example?

Could you go over that again, please?

I'm sorry, I missed that. Could you say it again?

Could you clarify what you mean by...?

Example Dialogues

Dialogue 1:

The new software will streamline our workflow significantly.

B: Could you please explain that a bit more? How exactly will it streamline our workflow?


Dialogue 2:

We need to improve our customer satisfaction metrics.

B: I'm sorry, could you repeat that? I didn't catch the last part.


Dialogue 3:

A: Our budget allocation for the next quarter will change.

B: What do you mean by "change"? Could you give me more details?



For the exercise below, choose the best response.

1. The project deadline has been moved to the 21st of July.

2. We need to adjust our current marketing strategy.

3. The new policy will be implemented starting Monday.

4. We'll be using a new tool for project management.

5. The data from last quarter shows a significant trend.

6. Our team needs to improve communication.

7. We have to reduce expenses in the next few months.

8. The client requested some changes to the proposal.

9. We'll be reallocating some resources for the new project.

10. The training session will cover new compliance regulations.

11. Our sales strategy will shift towards digital channels.

12. We need to increase our customer feedback collection efforts.


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Correct answers will  highlight  in green

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