be clear about one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be clear about one" is not correct in standard written English as it lacks context and specificity.
It could be used when discussing the importance of clarity regarding a particular subject or point, but it needs additional information to be meaningful. Example: "In our discussion, it's essential to be clear about one key issue: the budget constraints."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Let's be clear about one thing: The legal case for a moratorium on deportation has already been made.

Huffington Post

Before I offer my own take on that question, let's be clear about one thing.

The Guardian - Opinion

And let's be clear about one thing -- while the spotlight at the graduation ceremony shines most brightly on those who cross the stage and receive their diplomas, commencement has been, and always will be, a community activity.

Huffington Post

Now, let's be clear about one thing.

The New York Times

Finally, let's be clear about one thing.

The Guardian - Tech

But let me be clear about one thing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

When we first embarked on the project herein reported 1 we were clear about one point – namely that we wanted to create a new and flexible refinement engine, working in a collaborative environment and to be based on trusted and mature pre-existing code.

Acta Crystallographica Section A: Foundations and Advances

Williams was clear about one goal, not wanting to partake in a battle of the sexes.

The New York Times - Sports

I think being clear about one's vision and being able to articulate that clearly is important.

The Guardian

Clinton "has been clear about one thing – she hates the second amendment", LaPierre told the Conservative Political Action Conference CPACC) near Washington.

The Guardian

My youth?' " Despite her growing recognition abroad, Ms. Srbljanovic is clear about one thing: "I do not want to be 'a Serbian curiosity' used by people too unsophisticated to realize that we are not monochromatic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be clear about one", ensure the context specifies what you are being clear about. For instance, follow it with a colon and the specific point you want to emphasize.

Common error

Avoid using "be clear about one" without specifying the subject or issue needing clarification. This can lead to ambiguity and confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be clear about one" functions as an introductory expression used to emphasize the importance of a single, specific point. It aims to set the stage for clarification or to highlight a crucial aspect of a discussion or argument. Ludwig AI notes that the phrase requires additional context to be meaningful.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be clear about one" is a common introductory expression used to emphasize a specific point. Despite its frequent use, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically questionable without sufficient context. While it appears primarily in news and media, ensuring clarity by specifying the subject after the phrase is crucial. Consider alternatives like "clarify one point" or "let's establish one thing" for greater grammatical precision. Ultimately, while widely employed, mindful usage of "be clear about one" is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify one point

Emphasizes the act of making a single aspect more understandable.

let's establish one thing

Focuses on setting a foundational understanding before proceeding.

make one thing understood

Highlights the importance of ensuring a particular point is comprehended.

emphasize one aspect

Directs attention to a specific element to highlight its importance.

focus on one detail

Suggests narrowing the scope to a particular element for clarity.

stress one element

Indicates placing importance on a single component.

underscore one factor

Highlights a particular factor's significance.

highlight one issue

Draws attention to a specific problem or concern.

pinpoint one item

Identifies a single item with precision.

define one term

Concentrates on providing a clear definition for a specific concept.

FAQs

How can I use "be clear about one" effectively in a sentence?

To use "be clear about one" effectively, follow it with the specific point you want to emphasize. For example, "Let's be clear about one thing: this is not a negotiation."

What are some alternatives to "be clear about one"?

Alternatives include "clarify one point", "let's establish one thing", or "make one thing understood". These alternatives offer similar emphasis on clarity.

Is "be clear about one" grammatically correct?

While commonly used, Ludwig AI flags "be clear about one" as grammatically incorrect. It suggests that the phrase requires additional context to be grammatically sound. Consider "be specific about one" or "clarify one point" as alternatives.

What's the difference between "be clear about one" and "clarify one point"?

"Be clear about one" is a broader phrase that introduces a point of clarification, while "clarify one point" is a more direct instruction to make something specific clearer. The latter is generally more grammatically sound.