Instructions: Watch the video clip and answer the questions.
Question 1: What do you think is the cause of the communication breakdown?
Question 2: What can be the solution to this problem?
1. Express lack of understanding
• I’m sorry but I’m not sure (that) I understand.
• Sorry, I’m not sure (that) I know what you mean.
• Sorry but I don’t quite follow you.
• I’m sorry but I’m not sure I understand what you mean by "tech giants.“
• Sorry but I don’t quite follow what you’re saying about the new policy.
2. Ask for clarification
•Could you say it in another way?
•Can you clarify that for me?
•Could you rephrase that?
When you say…, do you mean…?
•When you say workers are on furlough, do you mean they’re temporarily laid off from work?
Other times, you may simply need more information or a helpful example. In such situations, the following are useful:
Could you be more specific?
Can you give me an example?
3. Confirm understanding
• Let me see if I understood you correctly. You’re saying that airport security workers are now working without pay?
Here is a very similar phrase: “If I understand you correctly, you’re saying that…”
•If I understand you correctly, you’re saying that airport security workers are now working without pay?
Another phrase you might use is, “So, what you’re saying is…”
•So, what you’re saying is (that) some hotels offer discounts to guests for not using their cellphones?
4. Offer thanks
After the person clarifies themselves, you can let them know that you now understand and are thankful. Have a listen:
• I got it. Thank you!
• Ah, I see. Thanks for clarifying.
• Now I understand. Thanks a lot.
Useful Links
1. Conversational English – Asking for Repetition
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N4249i-RcM
2. Learn English – English Phrases to ask for clarification (Free English Lessons)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPOECEAXnjA
3. Business English – 925 English Lesson 24: Asking for Clarification | Clarifying in English
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENCnqouZgyQ
4. How to Ask for Clarification
https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/how-to-a…/4726030.html