point of clarification

USAGE SUMMARY

'point of clarification' is a correct expression usable in written English.
It is used when something is not clear or needs to be explained in more detail. For example: "I'm not sure I understand, can you provide a point of clarification?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

(Point of clarification: Hermocrate knows that he is dealing with a female).

The New York Times

We would like to share an update and make a point of clarification.

The Economist

Following protests, the consultation was withdrawn and relaunched, without the glitch and with a point of clarification to permit a more or less meaningful choice.

The Guardian

And then there's a perennial point of clarification — "Superheroes don't kill people; they save people" — that seems to determine the action of the show.

The New York Times - Arts

To the several Times readers who objected to my offhanded description of the French philosopher Michel Foucault as "creepy," a point of clarification.

The New York Times

One specific point of clarification: the Hornets' leaked financial data reported a $6.4 million loss in 2007-8 but a $5.9 million gain in 2008-9.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

It is unsurprising then that students find it hard to speak out, ask questions or for points of clarification when they don't understand.

The Guardian

The BBC said it had agreed to meet with representatives of the five unions representing the company's employees to discuss "points of clarification" to the pension proposal.

The New York Times

Before presenting a critique of traditional just war theory (which I call the "Theory," for short) I should make two points of clarification.

The New York Times

Dr. Marburger said that after a year of negotiations, "many points of clarification remain to be addressed" before a contract modification expanding Bechtel's role in the cleanup could be completed.

The New York Times

Letters are welcome via e-mail to [email protected] Gakkai replySIR A few points of clarification following your article on the Soka Gakkai ("Support, at a price", July 3rd).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "point of clarification" to introduce an important detail that might otherwise be missed or misunderstood. This phrase is especially helpful in formal writing or presentations.

Common error

Avoid starting every explanation with "point of clarification". Vary your introductory phrases to maintain reader engagement; consider using simpler alternatives like "to clarify" or just stating the clarification directly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "point of clarification" functions as an introductory phrase, signaling the speaker or writer's intent to provide additional information, correct a misunderstanding, or offer a restatement for better understanding. As Ludwig shows, it's often used to preface important details.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "point of clarification" is a useful phrase for introducing an explanation or correction in various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct expression that signals the intent to ensure clarity. While most commonly found in News & Media and Scientific domains, it's also acceptable in formal business settings. To keep your writing engaging, remember to vary your introductory phrases instead of overusing this one. Ultimately, using "point of clarification" effectively involves signaling that the following information is crucial for the listener or reader's comprehension. As demonstrated by examples given from Ludwig, the phrase is more common in written contexts and formal environment and can be replaced with a simple “Clarification:” in less formal context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To clarify

An infinitive phrase indicating the intent to make something clearer.

Clarification

A shorter, more direct way to call for or offer clarification.

Just to be clear

Ensures there is no misunderstanding.

Explanation

A general term for providing further understanding.

For the sake of clarity

Emphasizes the goal of making something understandable.

Elaboration

Focuses on providing more detail rather than correcting a misunderstanding.

By way of explanation

Introduces an explanation, often for something that might be confusing.

Correction

Specifically indicates the act of fixing an error.

Let me rephrase

Indicates a restatement for better understanding.

Note

A brief statement that can add context or correct information.

FAQs

How can I use "point of clarification" in a sentence?

You can use "point of clarification" to introduce a correction, additional information, or a restatement that will help make your point more understandable. For instance: "As a "point of clarification", the data includes only the last quarter's results".

What phrases are similar to "point of clarification"?

Similar phrases include: "to clarify", "for the sake of clarity", or simply "clarification".

Is "point of clarification" formal or informal?

"Point of clarification" is generally considered neutral to formal. It's suitable for professional writing, presentations, and academic discussions, but it may sound overly formal in casual conversation. Use "just to be clear" for informal contexts.

When should I use "point of clarification" instead of just stating the clarification?

Use "point of clarification" when you need to explicitly signal that you are correcting a previous statement, providing essential context, or addressing a potential misunderstanding. This is especially useful in complex discussions or formal settings.