be clear about this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be clear about this" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the importance of understanding or clarity regarding a specific point or issue. Example: "Before we proceed, I want to be clear about this: all team members must submit their reports by Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Europe must see America as its next of kin, be clear about this being of existential importance.

Huffington Post

So let us be clear about this.

Independent

Let us be clear about this.

The New Yorker

So let me be clear about this.

The New York Times

Let me be clear about this..

The New York Times - Books

Let us be clear about this.

The New York Times

"We have to be clear about this," Koval said.

Independent

"Let me be clear about this," Mr. Fox said.

The New York Times

I want to be clear about this:   It's not that you reward failure.

The New York Times

Let's be clear about this: it is not a matter of principle.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I want to be clear about this: The debt ceiling is not a question of authorizing more spending," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In persuasive writing, use "be clear about this" to directly address potential misunderstandings or counterarguments.

Common error

Avoid using "be clear about this" too frequently, as it can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your phrasing with alternatives like "let's be unambiguous about this" or "it is important to understand this".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be clear about this" functions as a discourse marker, signaling emphasis and inviting the listener or reader to pay close attention to the upcoming statement. As noted by Ludwig AI, it underscores the importance of what follows.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be clear about this" is a versatile and commonly used expression to emphasize the importance of understanding a specific point. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread application across diverse contexts, including news, science, and formal communication. While highly effective, overuse should be avoided to maintain its impact, and alternatives like "let's be unambiguous about this" or "it is important to understand this" can offer variety. With a neutral register, it fits seamlessly into various settings, ensuring clarity and preventing misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let's be unambiguous about this

Replaces 'clear' with 'unambiguous' to emphasize lack of potential for misinterpretation.

let me be explicit about this

Substitutes 'clear' with 'explicit' to highlight directness and lack of implication.

let's make this perfectly clear

Adds 'perfectly' to amplify the clarity being sought.

understand this point

Focuses on ensuring comprehension of the specific matter.

it is important to understand this

Highlights the significance of understanding the issue at hand.

it is vital that you understand this

Stresses the critical importance of understanding.

it is imperative to understand this

Emphasizes the necessity of understanding the topic.

this must be understood

Expresses the compulsory nature of understanding.

pay attention to this

Draws focus to something important.

take note of this

Emphasizes recording the importance of something said.

FAQs

What does "be clear about this" mean?

The phrase "be clear about this" is used to emphasize the importance of understanding a specific point or issue. It signals that what follows is crucial and should be noted carefully.

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

You can use "be clear about this" to introduce or highlight a key statement. For example, "Be clear about this: all assignments are due by Friday."

What can I say instead of "be clear about this"?

You can use alternatives like "let's make this perfectly clear" or "understand this point" to convey a similar emphasis on clarity and understanding.

When is it appropriate to use "be clear about this"?

Use "be clear about this" when you need to ensure that your audience fully understands a critical piece of information or a non-negotiable requirement. It's suitable in situations where clarity is paramount.