Sorting out a misunderstanding B1
When the wires get crossed and you need to set the record straight.
mix up — confuse two thingsA: Did you call Sarah?
B: Oops, I mixed up her number with Emma's and called the wrong person.
what I mean is … — make your point clearerWhat I mean is, the deadline isn't realistic. (neutral)
Nah, what I mean is there's no way we'll finish in time. (casual)
take back B2 — retract wordsOkay, I take it back — you were right. (casual)
I'd like to withdraw what I said earlier. (formal)
Wrong end of the stick
A: Hang on, did you say the meeting's been moved to Thursday?
B: No, sorry, I think you've mixed up the dates. It's still Tuesday.
A: Oh, right. Sorry, I'd written Thursday in my diary, that's my fault.
B: No worries, easily done.
I shouldn't have said that
A: You said the report was a complete mess.
B: Yeah, look, I'll take that back — it came out harsher than I meant.
A: Fair enough. So what's actually wrong with it?
B: What I mean is, the numbers are spot on, it just needs tidying up.