let me rephrase

USAGE SUMMARY

"let me rephrase" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to reformulate a statement that was already expressed, in order to clarify or explain something better. For example: "I want to buy a car for myself," said John. "Let me rephrase that - I'm looking to invest in a car of my own."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Let me rephrase it.

The New York Times - Sports

Let me rephrase.

The New Yorker

Let me rephrase that.

The New York Times

Actually let me rephrase.

The Guardian

BRIAN WILLIAMS: Let me rephrase.

The New Yorker

LESLIE Let me rephrase that.

The New York Times

Sorry, let me rephrase that.

The Guardian

Jan: "Let me rephrase that.

The New York Times - Magazine

Actually, let me rephrase that: Mine Minee.

The New York Times

"Let me rephrase that," she said.

The New York Times

So let me rephrase the question.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "let me rephrase" to smoothly transition into a clearer or more accurate version of a previous statement. This helps avoid confusion and ensures your message is well-understood.

Common error

Avoid using "let me rephrase" excessively, as it can disrupt the flow of your writing or speech. Instead, consider revising your initial statement carefully before presenting it.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "let me rephrase" is as a discourse marker. It serves to signal an upcoming reformulation or clarification of a previous statement. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

6%

Less common in

Reference

2%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "let me rephrase" is a versatile and commonly used expression for indicating that a speaker or writer intends to clarify or refine a previous statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and appropriate for written English. Analysis of usage patterns reveals its prevalence in news media, formal business settings, and scientific discourse. Alternative phrases, such as "allow me to rephrase" and "let me put it another way", offer varying degrees of formality and emphasis. Remember to use it judiciously to maintain a natural flow in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let me put it another way

This alternative focuses on offering a different perspective or approach to the same idea.

allow me to rephrase

Using "allow" adds a slightly more formal tone compared to the original phrase.

permit me to rephrase

The use of "permit" makes the phrase even more formal, suggesting a request for allowance.

let me reword that

This alternative emphasizes the changing of specific words rather than the entire phrasing.

let me clarify

Focuses on making something clearer rather than simply restating it.

let me express that differently

Highlights the act of expressing the same idea with a different manner or style.

let me reframe that

Suggests a change in perspective or how the information is presented.

let me correct myself

This phrase is used when the speaker recognizes they have made a mistake and are adjusting their statement.

what I mean to say is

This option introduces the intended meaning, often used when the initial statement was misunderstood.

in other words

Signals a simpler or more direct explanation of the previous statement.

FAQs

How can I use "let me rephrase" in a sentence?

"Let me rephrase" is typically used to introduce a clearer or more accurate version of a statement you've already made. For example, "I think this is a good idea. Let me rephrase that; I believe this is an excellent opportunity."

What's a more formal way to say "let me rephrase"?

More formal alternatives include "allow me to rephrase" or "permit me to rephrase". These options add a level of politeness and deference.

When should I use "let me rephrase" instead of just correcting myself?

Use "let me rephrase" when you want to clarify or refine a statement that wasn't necessarily incorrect but could be better understood. If you made a factual error, it's better to directly correct yourself.

Are there any contexts where "let me rephrase" might be inappropriate?

While generally acceptable, overusing "let me rephrase" in very informal conversations can sound stilted. In such cases, a simple correction or clarification without the introductory phrase might be more suitable.