could you clarify that?
neutral
Ask someone to make something clearer or more specific.
Could you clarify the deadline?
Meaning-first English
How to say "Asking for clarification" in English
When something is vague, don't pretend. Ask a clean follow-up and save everyone time.
could you clarify that?
phraseneutral
The safest default: natural, clear, and easy to adapt.
A: We need it soon.
B: Could you clarify what 'soon' means?
Skip: "I want to say asking for clarification" — This describes your search, not what you'd say to a person.
Phrase playground
Pick your exact meaning
Start with the human feeling, then choose the English that fits the moment.
Asking for clarificationWhat do you mean?
what do you mean by...?
neutral
Ask about one unclear word or idea.
What do you mean by 'final version'?
can you be more specific?
neutral
Ask for exact information.
Can you be more specific about the issue?
just so I understand
neutral
A polite way to ask again.
Just so I understand, are we changing the date?
could you walk me through it?
neutral
Ask for a slower explanation.
Could you walk me through the process?
Situation check
Choose the moment
Default
You want the simple, natural option.
could you clarify that?
Best first choice.
Softer
You want to sound warmer or less blunt.
what do you mean by...?
Good for people.
Stronger
You want more color or emphasis.
can you be more specific?
Use when it fits.
Tone switcher
Say it like...
could you clarify that?.
Simple and natural.Could you clarify that? here, so I'll be careful with the next step.
Work-safe version.I'm sorry, but could you clarify that?.
Adds a softener.could you clarify that? tbh
Casual only.Native phrase battle
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If you learn one, learn could you clarify that?.