clarification

In a formal academic discussion, which of the following best maintains the flow of conversation while requesting clarification?

• "Sorry, I have no clue what you're talking about."

• "If I may interject, could you clarify what you meant by 'implicit bias' in that context?"

• "Wait, that doesn’t make sense."

• "Could you repeat that last thing you said?"

You are in a job interview and don’t fully understand a question. What is the most professionally appropriate response?

• "Sorry, what?"

• "I'm not sure I get it. Can you say that again?"

• "Would you mind rephrasing the question?"

• "Huh?"

Which of the following expressions conveys strategic ambiguity, that is, showing partial understanding while inviting clarification?

• I completely understand.

• I’m afraid I don’t get it.

• I see your point, but could you elaborate on how it applies in this scenario?

• You're not being clear.

Which response is most tactful when you suspect someone has made a mistake, but you're not sure you understood correctly?

• "That can't be right, are you sure?"

• "I must have misunderstood, did you mean to say that…?"

• "You probably misspoke."

• "Can you double-check that?"

In a multicultural professional setting, which expression best minimizes the risk of sounding confrontational when asking for clarification?

• "I don’t follow your logic."

• "Sorry, I’m lost."

• "Could you clarify what you mean so I can ensure we're on the same page?"

• "could you elaborate on how it applies in this scenario?"

During a panel discussion, you want to respectfully challenge a vague statement. What is the most effective approach?

• "Can you explain what that actually means?"

• "That’s quite vague, can you be specific?"

• "You're not making much sense right now."

• "Would you mind expanding on that point a little?"

What distinguishes “Could you elaborate on that?” from “Could you repeat that?”

• 'Could you elaborate on that?' seeks more detail, while 'Could you repeat that?' requests a repetition.
• 'Could you repeat that?' is used to ask for clarification on a topic.
• 'Could you elaborate on that?' is a formal greeting.
• 'Could you elaborate on that?' is a request for a summary.

Which expression subtly signals that the speaker wants the other person to reconsider or reframe their explanation?

• "Sorry, I didn’t catch that."

• "I got it the first time."

• "Can you try putting that another way?"

• "You lost me completely."

In academic discourse, what is the purpose of the phrase: “Just to make sure I’m following you…”

• To suggest disagreement

• To shift topics politely

• To express confusion

• To clarify understanding and invite correction

Choose the option that uses hedging to soften a request for clarification.

• I was wondering if you could clarify that point for me.
• Can you explain that?
• Please clarify this immediately.
• I need you to clarify that point.