seeks clarification

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeks clarification" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone is asking for more information or a clearer explanation about a particular topic or statement. Example: "During the meeting, she seeks clarification on the project's timeline to ensure everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Anyone who seeks clarification on this policy should consult with the Advanced Degree Programs Office.

University of California, Berkeley

The motion, which promises to be just one step in a long court battle, seeks clarification of whether the injunction applies solely to the six plaintiffs, each identified only as John Doe.

The New York Times

Gearing up for its latest offensive in the battle for P&O Princess Cruises, the Carnival Corporation plans this week to request the postponement of a shareholder vote as it seeks clarification of the cost of breaking up a rival deal, people close to Carnival said today.

The New York Times

"CA chief executive officer James Sutherland seeks clarification from the ICC on the dismissal of Usman Khawaja," Cricket Australia tweeted.

BBC

Sometimes Socrates seeks clarification of the claim; at other times he proceeds directly to elicit his partner's agreement to premises that will turn out to be inconsistent with the initial claim.

SEP

Chad Day, sheriff of Colorado's Yuma County, framed the case as one that seeks clarification from the courts for a question "that needs to be answered".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Mystified counselors sought clarification.

The New York Times

I am seeking clarification.

The Washington Post

I sought clarification from Mr. Craft.

The New York Times - Arts

"We are seeking clarification from him".

The Guardian - Sport

Russia is seeking clarification about what exactly the prince said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seeks clarification", ensure the context clearly indicates what information is being sought. Be specific about the subject requiring clarification to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "seeks clarification" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "asks for details" or "wants to understand better" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeks clarification" functions as a verbal phrase indicating an action. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is usable in written English, suggesting that it correctly expresses a desire for further explanation or details.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seeks clarification" is a grammatically sound way to express the need for further information or a clearer explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While appropriate for formal contexts like news reports and academic papers, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual conversation. The phrase is commonly used in news and media to indicate that someone is requesting more details on a particular matter. While semantically correct, the overuse of this phrase in informal scenarios might come across as too formal, therefore it should be used carefully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

requests explanation

Replaces "clarification" with "explanation", focusing on the need for a detailed account.

asks for details

Uses more common vocabulary to convey the request for specific information.

desires further information

Formal alternative, emphasizing the wish to obtain more details.

wants to understand better

Focuses on the goal of improving comprehension through additional information.

is looking for more clarity

Emphasizes the need for clarity, rather than a direct request.

inquires about specifics

Highlights the act of asking about particular aspects or details.

aims to elucidate

A more formal and sophisticated way of expressing the search for clarity.

demands a clearer picture

Suggests a stronger, more assertive need for clarification.

investigates the matter further

Shifts the focus to a more in-depth exploration of the topic.

probes for understanding

Implies a careful and thorough search for comprehension.

FAQs

What does "seeks clarification" mean?

The phrase "seeks clarification" means to ask for more information or a clearer explanation about something. It implies a need for better understanding.

How to use "seeks clarification" in a sentence?

You can use "seeks clarification" when someone is asking for more information or a clearer explanation about a particular topic or statement. Example: "During the meeting, she "seeks clarification" on the project's timeline to ensure everyone is on the same page."

What can I say instead of "seeks clarification"?

You can use alternatives like "requests explanation", "asks for details", or "desires further information" depending on the context.

Is "seeks clarification" formal?

The phrase "seeks clarification" is generally considered formal and suitable for professional or academic settings. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.