clarify the point

USAGE SUMMARY

"clarify the point" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when there is a possibility of confusion due to something not being clear, and you want to be sure everyone is on the same page. For example: "Let's take a moment to clarify the point before we move on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

He paused to clarify the point.

The New York Times - Arts

But we wish to clarify the point about the agency's ability to enforce the law.

The New York Times

In order to clarify the point, the system control model is developed and the characteristic equation is deduced.

Simulation Modelling Practice and Theory

This post was amended at 14 00 on 24 November 2016 with minor changes to correct typos and clarify the point about Gordon Brown's 10-year framework.

The Guardian

This article was amended at 20 45 on 17th July 2017 to clarify the point made about the summer use of teaching labs.

The Guardian

Now OSHA, which employs 2,000 inspectors to cover 6 million work sites employing more than 100 million workers, has issued a memorandum to clarify the point for the boss: toilets are for using.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

They were asked to clarify the points of misunderstanding in the task procedure.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

A further study is indicated to clarify the points raised by the study.

British Journal of Cancer

We are grateful for the chance to clarify the points raised, which suggest our conclusions were too optimistic.

Brain

Specific comments I would suggest to the authors to clarify the points listed below: Figure 1: The authors should give the abbreviations of the body parts.

F1000Research

Clarifying the point in last paragraph.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clarify the point" to signal an upcoming restatement or re-explanation to avoid misunderstanding.

Common error

Avoid using "clarify the point" as mere filler. Ensure your clarification adds genuine value and insight, rather than simply restating the obvious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clarify the point" functions as a verbal phrase used to introduce an explanation or restatement intended to remove ambiguity. As Ludwig AI shows, it's commonly found across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clarify the point" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that introduces further explanation and elaboration. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found across diverse writing styles. This phrase often serves to remove ambiguity and improve the overall understanding of the information presented. Its frequent use in News & Media and Science confirms its applicability in contexts where precision is essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

elucidate the matter

Uses a more formal verb, "elucidate", implying a thorough explanation.

explain the issue

Replaces "point" with "issue", focusing on the subject of discussion.

clarify the subject matter

Replaces "point" with the more formal "subject matter".

spell out the details

Suggests providing very explicit and detailed information.

make the meaning clear

Focuses on ensuring the meaning is easily understood.

shed light on the subject

Uses a metaphorical expression to indicate making something clearer.

provide further details

Emphasizes the addition of more specific information.

go into more detail

Suggests providing a more thorough explanation.

expound on the topic

Uses "expound" to suggest a detailed and elaborate explanation.

put it in simpler terms

Focuses on making the explanation easier to understand.

FAQs

How can I use "clarify the point" in a sentence?

You can use "clarify the point" to introduce an explanation or additional detail. For example: "To clarify the point, the new regulation only applies to businesses with over 50 employees."

What are some alternatives to "clarify the point"?

Alternatives include "explain the issue", "elucidate the matter", or "shed light on the subject", depending on the context.

Is there a more formal way to say "clarify the point"?

Yes, a more formal alternative is "elucidate the matter" or "expound on the topic". These options are suitable for academic or professional settings.

What is the difference between "clarify the point" and "go into more detail"?

"Clarify the point" focuses on making something already mentioned clearer, whereas "go into more detail" suggests providing additional, previously unmentioned information.