explain that again

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "explain that again" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when you want someone to clarify or repeat information that was previously shared. For example, "I didn't quite understand the concept; could you explain that again?" Alternative expressions include "repeat that," "clarify that," and "restate that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

You have to be quite humble - to step back and let someone inform you, always ready to say: "Could you explain that again?" Otherwise it becomes a battle.

The Guardian

It often appears when someone extends a kindness or offers assistance: "Sorry to trouble you!", "I'm sorry, but can you explain that again?", "So sorry, it was totally my fault".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A really good example of this is any occasion of a not-explicitly-offensive joke or comment or comedy song on an international broadcast about actresses' naked boobs having to be contextualized, again and again and again, as part of a culture of disparagement and diminishment, and then explaining that again and again and again a day later.

Vice

"You are going to have to explain that to me again, because there are particular individuals here," he said.

The New Yorker

If a particularly strong hurricane hits, climatologists will once again explain that rising sea levels increase the likelihood of more, and more severe, storms, and perhaps even more Americans will begin believing in climate change.

The New York Times

Again, explain that you will have the stone pulled as part of the appraisal process.

Vice

She will then apologize and yet again explain that she can't give you any glass.

WikiHow

Once again, explain that you do not want to isolate them or in any manner cut them off entirely.

WikiHow

Before I know it, another question has popped out of my mouth and Chang Zongbo is turning around again to explain that rubber is lucrative for the farmer but a daunting enemy for anyone interested in biodiversity or wildlife.

BBC

And no matter how hard Alejandro protested, trying to explain that his friend promised never again to enter his body, they went on with the spell-removal ceremony.

Vice

Ah, Mr Powell explained, that was again quite the wrong interpretation of the email.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explain that again" in written communication, ensure the context makes it clear what "that" refers to. Ambiguity can lead to further confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "explain that again" without a clear reference to what needs clarification. Instead, specify the part you need help with, for example, "explain the second step again".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explain that again" functions as an imperative request. It directs the listener to provide a repeated and potentially clarified explanation of something previously mentioned. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explain that again" is a grammatically sound and commonly understood phrase used to request clarification or repetition of information. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is valid for use. Although it appears more frequently in news media and wiki contexts, it's important to tailor the level of formality to the specific situation. When in doubt, consider using more polite alternatives like "can you clarify that" or "would you mind elaborating" particularly in professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Could you repeat that

This is a more direct and concise way to ask someone to say something again.

Can you clarify that

Focuses on making something clearer, rather than just repeating it.

Please explain it once more

A polite request emphasizing a need for another explanation.

Would you mind elaborating

A more formal way of asking for more detail or explanation.

Can you rephrase that

Suggests the original phrasing was unclear and asks for a different way of saying it.

Can you go over that again

Requests a review of previously discussed material.

Could you run that by me again

A more informal way to ask for something to be repeated, often used in casual conversation.

What was that

A very direct, and sometimes abrupt, way to ask someone to repeat themselves.

Say that again

A simple and direct request for repetition, can sometimes sound demanding depending on tone.

Tell me again

A straightforward request for repetition.

FAQs

How can I use "explain that again" in a sentence?

You can use "explain that again" when you need someone to clarify something they've already said. For instance, "I didn't understand that; could you "explain that again"?"

What's a more formal alternative to "explain that again"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "can you clarify that" or "would you mind elaborating".

Is it okay to use "explain that again" in professional settings?

While "explain that again" is generally acceptable, it might be perceived as less polite in some professional contexts. Opt for alternatives like "can you rephrase that" to maintain a more courteous tone.

What's the difference between "explain that again" and "repeat that"?

"Repeat that" simply asks for a repetition, while ""explain that again"" implies a lack of understanding and seeks clarification along with the repetition.