be unclear on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be unclear on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing confusion or lack of understanding about a specific topic or issue. Example: "I tend to be unclear on the details of the project, so I would appreciate some clarification."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Colt Kennedy again: "Should anyone be unclear on the rules of qualification (can't imagine why), some absolutely wonderful person on Wikipedia made the following chart.

The Guardian - Sport

Specialization to an environment can be difficult to understand: it may be unclear on what properties of the environment the agent depends, or in what manner it depends on each individual property.

Artificial Intelligence

Trump even appeared to be unclear on how far away Puerto Rico is from the mainland United States, saying there's "a very big ocean" rescuers have to cross to get there.

The Washington Post

It's okay to be unclear on something as long as you're upfront about it.

Forbes

Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the reference standard, before its performance or upon contraindications, CEUS can increase diagnostic accuracy of baseline US [55, 56], by revealing decreased but present blood flow (contrary to absent flow due to obstruction), a finding suggesting more cephalad occlusion that may be unclear on colour Doppler US (Fig. 15).

Insights into Imaging

Cain also "appeared to be unclear on the issue of collective bargaining as it involves federal employees".

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

It was unclear on Monday whether Bulo Burti was one of the first towns the insurgents had seized — and held.

The New York Times

It is unclear on what basis they made the determination that one claim was more credible than the other".

The New York Times

It was unclear on Saturday if Mr. Lakdim had been holding more than one person hostage.

The New York Times

I'm unclear on Lent.

The New Yorker

He was unclear on the specifics.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be unclear on", follow it with the specific topic or aspect that is causing confusion. For example, "I'm unclear on the project's objectives" is more informative than "I'm unclear on the project".

Common error

Avoid using "be unclear on" without specifying what you're unclear about, as this can come across as vague and unhelpful. Instead of saying "I'm unclear on this", specify "I'm unclear on the budget allocation for this project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be unclear on" functions as a predicative adjective phrase, describing a state of uncertainty or lack of understanding. It is commonly used to express that someone lacks complete information or is confused about a particular topic. Ludwig confirms this phrase is appropriate in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be unclear on" is a grammatically correct and usable way to express a lack of understanding or confusion. According to Ludwig, the phrase is appropriate in written English. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts but is versatile enough for use in scientific, and general writing. To ensure clarity, it's best to specify the exact topic causing confusion. Related alternatives include "be uncertain about" and ""lack clarity on"". By providing more specific information when using the phrase, you can improve communication and avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Be uncertain about

Focuses on a lack of sureness or confidence regarding something.

Be confused about

Emphasizes a state of mental disarray or inability to comprehend.

Lack clarity on

Highlights the absence of clearness or distinctness on a topic.

Be vague about

Suggests a lack of precision or detail in understanding.

Be hazy about

Implies a blurred or indistinct understanding of something.

Be ignorant of

Focuses on a lack of knowledge or awareness about something.

Be unaware of

Emphasizes a lack of consciousness or realization about something.

Have no idea about

Indicates a complete absence of understanding or knowledge.

Be uninformed about

Highlights a lack of information or education on a topic.

Misunderstand

Implies an incorrect interpretation or comprehension.

FAQs

What does it mean to "be unclear on" something?

To "be unclear on" something means to lack a complete understanding of it, or to be confused about certain aspects of it. It implies a need for further clarification or explanation.

How can I politely express that I "am unclear on" something?

You can politely express that you "are unclear on" something by saying "Could you clarify...?", "I'm not sure I fully understand...", or "I might "be confused about"...".

What are some alternatives to saying "I'm unclear on this"?

Alternatives include "I don't fully understand this", "I need more clarification on this", or "I "lack clarity on" this".

Is it better to say "be unclear on" or "be unclear about"?

Both "be unclear on" and "be unclear about" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably, although "be unclear about" might be slightly more common. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific context.