clarification letter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clarification letter" is correct and usable in written English.
For example, if someone misunderstands a previous message, the sender might issue a clarification letter to explain the original intent more clearly.

✓ Grammatically correct

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"Such a failure does not render the clarification letter unenforceable in this instance because the parties themselves have acted in reliance upon the clarification letter and have treated the document as enforceable," he wrote.

The New York Times

Judge Peck never approved the clarification letter and wrote that the way the letter had been handled "may have deviated" from normal bankruptcy procedure.

The New York Times

One of the issues addressed in the ruling was a clarification letter outlining various assets to be included in the Barclays purchase.

The New York Times

A 1996 clarification letter from the Department of Education refers to the proportionality test as a "safe harbor" -- meaning that this simple-to-apply numerical formula can assure an athletic director and a university president that their institution is in compliance and not subject to legal action.

The New York Times

Although Fannie made no reference to specific services in its recent clarification letter to lenders, some commercially available programs claim to be able to monitor mortgage borrowers' credit activities on a 24/7 basis, flagging such things as inquiries, new credit accounts and previous accounts that did not show up on the credit report that was pulled at the time of initial application.

The Washington Post

The two said they learned of Reed's snafu late last week, when she solicited their signatures for the clarification letter that was later sent to Levine.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Only 21 clarification letters were examined in this analysis as some early STAs did not have clarification letters and others were unavailable.

BMJ Open

Clarification letters are currently being developed using a more structured approach.

BMJ Open

Twenty-one clarification letters were available, relating to the first 30 STAs.

BMJ Open

Only the first 30 completed ERG reports and 21 associated clarification letters were examined in this analysis.

BMJ Open

The clarification letters were examined, and data were extracted using a set of open codes with definitions to categorise data.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting a "clarification letter", be direct and concise. Clearly state the original point of confusion and provide a straightforward explanation to resolve it.

Common error

Ensure the "clarification letter" itself doesn't introduce new ambiguities. Use precise language and avoid jargon that could confuse the recipient further.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clarification letter" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific type of written communication intended to provide further explanation or resolve ambiguity. Ludwig confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clarification letter" is a grammatically correct and usable term, as confirmed by Ludwig, primarily functioning as a noun phrase. It's used to denote a formal written communication aimed at resolving ambiguities or misunderstandings. While not very common, the phrase appears across professional contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure the letter is direct, concise, and avoids further ambiguity. Alternative phrases include "letter of explanation" or "explanatory memorandum".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

letter of explanation

Reorders the words to emphasize the purpose of explaining.

elucidating letter

Substitutes "clarification" with a synonym that suggests making something clearer.

letter providing details

Emphasizes the detailed information contained within the letter.

explanatory memorandum

Replaces "letter" with a more formal term, implying a detailed explanation.

note of clarification

Replaces "letter" with "note" to suggest a less formal communication.

follow-up communication

Focuses on the sequential aspect of the message, implying it comes after a previous message.

interpretative communication

Uses more abstract terms to convey a similar meaning, moving away from the directness of "letter".

defining memorandum

Implies the document sets clear boundaries or definitions.

supplementary notice

Suggests an additional piece of information is being provided, rather than a direct clarification.

amendment letter

Highlights that the purpose of the letter is to correct a mistake.

FAQs

What is the purpose of a "clarification letter"?

A "clarification letter" aims to resolve misunderstandings or ambiguities related to a previous communication or agreement. It provides additional details or explanations to ensure clarity.

When should I use a "clarification letter"?

Use a "clarification letter" when there's evidence of confusion or misinterpretation regarding a previous statement, policy, or agreement. It's best used proactively to prevent further issues.

What information should I include in a "clarification letter"?

A "clarification letter" should reference the original communication, clearly state the point of confusion, provide a concise explanation or correction, and offer contact information for further inquiries.

What are some alternatives to using a "clarification letter"?

Depending on the context, you might use a phone call, an email providing "further explanation", or an "amendment letter" if the original document requires formal changes.