clarify how

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clarify how" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea of further explaining something that has already been stated. For example: "The professor didn't clarify how to complete the assignment, so I'm still confused."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

*This post was revised to clarify how the I.M.F.

The New Yorker

Some of the research set out to clarify how exactly that decision-making differed.

The New Yorker

What it did do was clarify how such values should be determined.

The New York Times

(Watching a subsequent performance from the wings also helped clarify how the quick changes happen).

The New York Times

Guidance will be needed to clarify how existing EU legislation applies to shale gas".

The Guardian

Such maps clarify how much these novels depend on a curious link between mind and feet.

The New Yorker

The DfE was not immediately able to clarify how many individuals were identified in each record.

The Guardian

After all, he's had five more days to clarify how he would tackle gun violence.

The New Yorker

But she doesn't clarify how she knew when to lead people away.

The Guardian - Film

Then clarify how you're going to that.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"But he does not clarify how exactly he has changed".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "clarify how", ensure that you are building upon a previous statement or idea. It is most effective when adding detail to something already introduced, providing a deeper understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "clarify how" as the opening statement of an explanation. This phrase is best used to expand on something already mentioned, not to introduce a new topic without context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clarify how" functions primarily as a connector that introduces further explanation or detail regarding a process or method. As Ludwig AI indicates, it serves to expand upon something already introduced, adding depth to the initial information. This is supported by examples where it prompts further elaboration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clarify how" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to introduce further explanation, most effectively when expanding upon existing details. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it enhances understanding across diverse contexts, from scientific and academic writing to general news reporting. While it is widely applicable, it's best practice to avoid using "clarify how" as an initial statement. The phrase functions as a connector, adding depth and precision to previously mentioned topics. Alternatives like "explain how", "describe how", and "illustrate how" can offer subtle nuances, but "clarify how" remains a direct and reliable choice for promoting clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

explain how

Focuses more directly on the act of explaining, whereas "clarify how" emphasizes making something clearer.

describe how

Similar to "explain how", but often involves providing a more detailed account of the process or method.

illustrate how

Implies the use of examples or visual aids to make the process or method more understandable.

detail how

Emphasizes providing a comprehensive and thorough account of the steps or mechanisms involved.

specify how

Focuses on being precise and exact in outlining the method or process.

elucidate how

Implies a more formal and in-depth explanation, often used in academic or technical contexts.

demystify how

Suggests removing confusion or complexity to make the process or method easier to understand.

shed light on how

Offers a figurative way of making something clearer by providing new information or perspective.

spell out how

Indicates providing a very detailed and explicit explanation, leaving no room for ambiguity.

break down how

Focuses on dividing a complex process or method into simpler, more manageable steps.

FAQs

How can I use "clarify how" in a sentence?

Use "clarify how" when you want to further explain a process or method that has already been mentioned. For example, "The manual outlines the steps, but I need to "clarify how" each step is executed in practice."

What are some alternatives to "clarify how"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "explain how", "describe how", or "illustrate how" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it always necessary to use "clarify how" after introducing a complex topic?

While not always necessary, using "clarify how" can be very beneficial in simplifying complex topics, helping your audience grasp the intricacies more easily. Consider if your audience would benefit from a more detailed explanation of the topic at hand.

What's the difference between "clarify how" and "explain why"?

"Clarify how" focuses on the method or process, while "explain why" focuses on the reasons or causes behind something. Choose the phrase that aligns with the kind of information you want to convey.