obtain clarification

USAGE SUMMARY

"obtain clarification" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is a phrase used to refer to getting an explanation or more information about something. For example, "If I don't understand something, I try to obtain clarification from a reliable source."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Evf takes the view that the law needs clarifying — and it using these new data protection complaints as the vehicle to obtain clarification from the various regional data protection agencies.

TechCrunch

"Where the government feels it is necessary, it is right that we obtain clarification of the devolution settlement from the Supreme Court, following the process that the Government of Wales Act clearly sets out".

BBC

Electronic messages were sent to some authors to obtain clarification where necessary.

BioMed Research International

These factors might also have compromised providers' opportunity to seek and obtain clarification when faced with practical challenges in the course of implementing the treatment guidelines.

BMC Health Services Research

As soon as the course of events became known, my group tabled an oral question on the matter in order to obtain clarification of the questions of principle which had been raised and of the inevitable consequences.

EU Parlament

The most recent package insert for each agent was assessed for the most current clinical information, and the manufacturer and/or the overall investigator was contacted to obtain clarification on infection information.

British Journal of Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

They were allowed to ask questions and obtain clarifications by dedicated medical personnel.

BMC Women's Health

No attempt was made to contact the authors of those articles to obtain clarifications on the recall period used.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Formal discussions with selected senior health ministry staff and NTF members involved in the design of the scheme were conducted to obtain clarifications, verify events, and obtain background information.

BMC Health Services Research

Having obtained clarification it was now clear that an offence had been committed, he said.

BBC

Corresponding authors were e-mailed for obtaining clarifications or extra data.

Progress in Orthodontics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "obtain clarification", ensure that you have a specific question or area of uncertainty in mind to guide your inquiry. Being precise will help you get the most relevant and useful information.

Common error

While "obtain clarification" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Opt for alternatives like "get it clear" or "understand better" in less formal conversations to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obtain clarification" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of acquiring a clearer understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Examples show it used when someone needs to understand something better.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obtain clarification" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies the act of seeking a clearer understanding. Ludwig AI underlines its validity, showing its use in contexts where precision is key. While frequently found in scientific, news, and formal business settings, it may sound overly formal in casual conversations. For more informal situations, consider alternatives such as "get the details" or "understand better". Remember, the primary goal is effective communication, and choosing the right phrasing ensures clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clarify understanding

This alternative phrase highlight the act of making understanding of something clearer.

seek explanation

Emphasizes the act of asking for an explanation.

seek further information

Emphasizes the action of seeking additional information in order to enhance knowledge.

get details

Focuses on acquiring specific information rather than a general understanding.

elicit information

Implies a more active effort to draw information out of someone.

request details

A more formal way to ask for details.

gain insight

Focuses on achieving a deeper understanding.

determine the specifics

Highlights the need to establish precise details.

ascertain the facts

Highlights the determination of truth or reality.

find out more

Suggests a broader search for additional information.

FAQs

How can I use "obtain clarification" in a sentence?

You can use "obtain clarification" to express the action of seeking clarity on a particular subject. For instance, "I need to "obtain clarification" regarding the new policy before I can fully support it".

What's a less formal way to say "obtain clarification"?

Less formal alternatives include phrases like "get it clear", "get the details", or simply "understand". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it better to "obtain clarification" or "seek clarification"?

Both "obtain clarification" and "seek clarification" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Seek clarification" might be slightly more common, but ""obtain clarification"" is perfectly acceptable and often used in formal contexts.

When should I use "obtain clarification" instead of "ask for help"?

Use ""obtain clarification"" when you need a clearer understanding of something specific, such as a policy or instruction. Use "ask for help" when you need assistance in completing a task or solving a problem.