need clarification

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "need clarification" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is unclear or requires further explanation. Example: "I read your report, but there are a few points that need clarification. Can you please provide more details on the data collection methods used?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"These inflammatory comments need clarification," he said.

The Guardian

The average earnings you give for freelancers need clarification.

The New York Times

"These reports are untrue and need clarification," the official said.

The Guardian

But there are other points that need clarification.

The New York Times

But if my remarks on the podcast need clarification I am happy to do that.

The Guardian

"The idea is a good one and certainly useful, but we need clarification," he said.

The New York Times

A Home Office source said: "This shows why we need clarification.

The Guardian

Some of the statements made in the articles do, however, need clarification.

The New York Times

I now turn to some inconsistencies and issues that will need clarification.

The New York Times

"A number of issues need clarification," Mr. Specter said in a telephone interview Friday.

The New York Times

Mr Davies believes the final objectives of the project need clarification and agreement.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "need clarification" when you identify specific points that are unclear or ambiguous and require further explanation to avoid misunderstandings. For example, "The methodology section need clarification regarding the sample size selection."

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something "need clarification" without indicating the specific areas or points that are unclear. Always specify what aspect requires further explanation to guide the recipient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "need clarification" functions as a request or statement indicating that something is not fully understood and requires further explanation. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a common expression used across diverse contexts to point out ambiguity or a lack of detail.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "need clarification" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that something is unclear and requires further explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to scientific publications. While versatile, it's important to specify what aspects require clarification to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "require further elaboration" or "demand more details" might be more appropriate in formal settings, while simpler phrases can be used in informal communication. The phrase's frequency and consistent application make it a reliable choice for expressing a need for more information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

require further explanation

Emphasizes the necessity of additional explanation to understand something fully.

demand more details

Highlights the need for a greater level of specificity in the information provided.

call for greater precision

Suggests a need for more accurate and exact information.

warrant further investigation

Indicates that a topic requires more in-depth exploration and study.

necessitate further inquiry

Implies that additional questions and research are needed to gain clarity.

beg for elucidation

Highlights an appeal or request for light to be shed on an issue or clarification on a subject.

invite further scrutiny

It means it calls for and suggests close analysis and examination

are in need of further refinement

Indicates that the subject is immature and must be perfected and made more impeccable

are in need of further tuning

Suggest the object must be perfected and made to look flawless.

must be further streamlined

Means to be more organised and well formatted.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "need clarification" in a formal context?

In a formal setting, consider using phrases like "require further elaboration", "demand more details", or "warrant further investigation" to maintain a professional tone.

What are some less formal alternatives to "need clarification"?

For informal situations, you could say "I'm confused", "can you explain that?", or "what do you mean?"

Is it better to say "needs clarification" or "need clarification"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "needs clarification" with singular subjects (e.g., "The report needs clarification"). Use "need clarification" with plural subjects (e.g., "These points need clarification").

What's the difference between "need clarification" and "require clarity"?

"Need clarification" is a more direct statement indicating something is unclear. "Require clarity" is a more formal way of saying that something needs to be clearer and more easily understood.