clarifying the matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clarifying the matter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain or make something clearer regarding a specific issue or topic. Example: "In our meeting, we focused on clarifying the matter to ensure everyone understood the project's objectives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The UN statement said Ban thanked Clinton "for clarifying the matter and for expressing her concern about the difficulties created".

The Guardian

After an extended transcript was released, Brough apologised to parliament "if my statement yesterday unwittingly added to the confusion rather than clarifying the matter".

The Guardian

Downing Street was forced to issue another statement clarifying the matter and saying any suggestion the Prime Minister had been telling people to wear jumpers  was "mischief-making".

Independent

Brough came into the chamber on Wednesday morning to apologise "if my statement yesterday unwittingly added to the confusion rather than clarifying the matter" – but in question time he declined to explain which other part he had thought he was answering.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

His exasperation clarifies the matter.

The New York Times

We are happy to clarify the matter.

Independent

Mr. Cuomo later called a reporter to clarify the matter.

The New York Times

The office urged the State Legislature to clarify the matter.

The New York Times

The Trump Organization had done little to clarify the matter.

The New Yorker

Perkins wanted the legislature to clarify the matter.

The New York Times

The three groups call on Rangers, or the nomad Daniel Stewart, to clarify the matter.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clarifying the matter" when you want to emphasize the act of making something less confusing, often after a misunderstanding or ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "clarifying the matter" when a simpler explanation would suffice. This phrase is best suited for situations where there is a genuine need to resolve confusion, not for everyday explanations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clarifying the matter" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun. It often serves as the object of a verb or preposition, emphasizing the action of making something clear or resolving confusion, as evidenced by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "clarifying the matter" is grammatically correct and functions to emphasize the action of resolving confusion. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Though relatively rare, it is primarily found in news and media contexts. To avoid overuse, reserve this phrase for situations where genuine ambiguity requires resolution. Consider alternatives like "explaining the situation" or "clearing things up" for simpler explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clearing up the confusion

Addresses and resolves existing misunderstandings.

explaining the situation

Offers a straightforward account of what happened.

making the facts clear

Focuses on removing ambiguity from a set of information.

elucidating the issue

Uses a more formal vocabulary, suggesting a deeper explanation.

shedding light on the topic

Implies revealing previously unknown or obscured information.

drawing attention to the facts

Highlights specific information that is crucial for understanding.

defining the terms

Concentrates on establishing precise meanings to avoid vagueness.

putting it into perspective

Provides context to aid understanding.

going into detail

Suggests a thorough examination of the topic.

expounding on the details

Implies a comprehensive and often persuasive explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "clarifying the matter" in a sentence?

You can use "clarifying the matter" when you want to emphasize the action of making something clearer after there has been some confusion. For example, "The spokesperson held a press conference for "clarifying the matter" after the inaccurate reports were released."

What's a less formal way to say "clarifying the matter"?

If you're looking for a less formal alternative, consider using phrases like "clearing things up" or "explaining it". These options are more suitable for casual conversations.

When is it appropriate to use "clarifying the matter"?

"Clarifying the matter" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the process of resolving confusion or ambiguity surrounding a particular issue. It's often used in formal contexts such as press releases or official statements.

What is the difference between ""clarifying the matter"" and "explaining the situation"?

"Clarifying the matter" implies that there was pre-existing confusion or misunderstanding that needs to be resolved, while "explaining the situation" simply means providing information about a particular set of circumstances without necessarily addressing any confusion.