clear about what

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clear about what" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express the need for clarity regarding a specific topic or issue. Example: "I need you to be clear about what you expect from the team moving forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

People need to be clear about what they want.

Independent

But let's be clear about what this means.

The New Yorker

"Reyes is very clear about what he did.

The New Yorker

We have been clear about what we stand for.

Independent

But he was quite clear about what he wanted.

The New York Times - Magazine

Let's be clear about what works and what doesn't.

The New York Times

Let's be clear about what the Fed is doing.

The New Yorker

At times I'm absolutely clear about what makes sense.

The New York Times

That actually was pretty clear about what he was doing".

The New York Times

Let me be clear about what I'm not saying.

The New York Times

Perhaps we were not clear about what that means.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions or setting expectations, use "clear about what" to ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, reducing potential misunderstandings.

Common error

Don't just state that someone should be "clear about what". Specify the particular information or expectations to avoid ambiguity and ensure effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear about what" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a subject by indicating a state of understanding or certainty regarding a specific object or concept. Ludwig confirms its correct and frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clear about what" is a versatile and widely used expression that emphasizes the importance of understanding and certainty. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, it frequently appears in news, general writing, and scientific contexts, highlighting its broad applicability. While alternatives like "certain about what" and "explicit about what" offer similar meanings, the specific choice depends on the desired emphasis. Remember to use "clear about what" to improve clarity and reduce ambiguity in your communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

certain about what

Indicates a state of being completely sure or having no doubt about something, emphasizing confidence in understanding.

sure about what

Similar to "certain about what", but may imply a slightly less emphatic level of confidence.

definite about what

Suggests a firm and unambiguous understanding, highlighting the lack of uncertainty.

unambiguous about what

Focuses on the lack of any possible misinterpretation or vagueness.

explicit about what

Emphasizes the direct and clear expression of something, leaving no room for guessing.

precise about what

Highlights the accuracy and exactness of the information or understanding.

specific about what

Indicates a focus on particular details, avoiding generalities.

articulate about what

Suggests a skillful and clear expression of thoughts or ideas.

aware of what

Emphasizes the knowledge or consciousness of something.

mindful of what

Highlights attentiveness to something important.

FAQs

How can I use "clear about what" in a sentence?

You can use "clear about what" to emphasize the need for understanding or certainty regarding a specific topic. For example: "It's crucial to be "clear about what" the project goals are before starting."

What are some alternatives to "clear about what"?

Alternatives include phrases like "certain about what", "explicit about what", or "specific about what", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "clear about what" or "clear on what"?

"Clear about what" and "clear on what" are both acceptable, but "clear about what" is slightly more common. Both are used to indicate a state of understanding or certainty.

What's the difference between "clear about what" and "aware of what"?

"Clear about what" suggests a precise understanding, while "aware of what" simply indicates knowledge or consciousness of something. Being "clear about what" implies a deeper level of comprehension.