clarify the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clarify the question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any context when you need to ask for more details or further explanation about something. For example, "I'm not really sure what you're asking me - could you please clarify the question?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

She pauses to clarify the question.

The Guardian

I decide it's probably wise to clarify the question.

The Guardian - Opinion

Justice Bartley asked the jurors to clarify the question, and they withdrew it.

The New York Times

Further, the appointment of Mr. Dahlan did not clarify the question of who is ultimately in charge of security.

The New York Times

In particular, they clarify the question of what is the right definition of tight Euclidean t-designs (tight t-designs on Rn and tight t-designs on p-concentric sphere).

European Journal of Combinatorics

McCloughan's continued absence Tuesday, confirmed by a person with knowledge of the situation, did little to clarify the question of who is directing the Redskins' roster-building efforts this offseason.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

The release of her son did little to clarify the questions.

The New York Times

But they looked to the relevant federal agency to clarify the questions raised by Section 1312(d)(3)(D).

The New York Times

Apart from asking me to clarify the questions, you may not get help from any person on the take-home final.

Cornell University

Students said that some of the teaching fellows tried to clarify the questions and even suggested answers; in effect, encouraging collaboration and ensuring similar answers.

The New York Times

"I can be very candid [during interviews]," says Alan Kipping-Ruane, a former US navy rescue swimmer, adding that he will often clarify the questions asked of him.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "clarify the question" in formal writing, ensure that the context provides a clear reason why clarification is needed and what specific aspects require further explanation.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "clarify the question" without actively seeking further details or rephrasing the query to ensure better understanding. Provide the extra effort to really understand what are the focus and concerns of the question and show the other speaker you are actively trying to address their requirements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clarify the question" serves as an imperative request or a statement of intent to seek a clearer understanding. As evidenced by Ludwig, it's used when the initial question is ambiguous or requires further explanation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clarify the question" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves to request a more detailed or precise understanding of an inquiry. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is applicable across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While it maintains a neutral register, best practices suggest providing substantive follow-up to show genuine engagement in seeking clarification. Common errors involve overusing the phrase without actively pursuing deeper understanding. Alternatives include "explain the question further" or ""rephrase the question"". The phrase functions as an imperative or statement of intent to ensure accurate comprehension, contributing to effective communication across various settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Explain the question further

Focuses on providing a more detailed explanation.

Rephrase the question

Highlights rewording the question for better understanding.

Provide more detail about the question

Emphasizes the need for additional information.

Elaborate on the question

Stresses expanding the question with more information.

Could you be more specific about your question?

Requests a more precise formulation of the question.

Can you give me more context for the question?

Asks for background information related to the question.

What are you really asking?

Directly seeks the underlying intention of the question.

Help me understand the question

Implies a need for assistance in comprehending the question.

What's the core of the question?

Focuses on identifying the essential element of the question.

Define the question more precisely

Highlights the necessity of having a clearer definition.

FAQs

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

You can use "clarify the question" when you need more information or a better understanding of what someone is asking. For example, "Before I answer, could you please clarify the question?"

What's a more formal way to ask someone to "clarify the question"?

In a more formal setting, you might say, "Could you elaborate on the question?" or "Could you "rephrase the question" for better understanding?"

What can I say instead of "clarify the question"?

You can use alternatives like "explain the question further", "provide more detail about the question", or "what are you really asking" depending on the context.

Is it rude to ask someone to "clarify the question"?

No, it's not rude to ask someone to "clarify the question". It shows you're engaged and want to provide an accurate and helpful response. Just be polite and respectful in your request.