we sought clarification

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we sought clarification" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express that you asked for more information or explanation about something that was unclear. Example: "After the meeting, we sought clarification on the project deadlines to ensure everyone was on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

As this was one of the few Web sites with a contact page, we sought clarification -- but heard nothing back.

The New York Times

When we received reports that the lives of human rights workers were threatened recently, we sought clarification.

Independent

When we sought clarification on the launch programme for this development, we were told that the private database of landlords came first, Hong Kongers came second, and British first-time buyers came third.

The Guardian - Money

We sought clarification after that, but there is no doubt the car is fully compliant.

BBC

If a discrepancy between sources occurred, we sought clarification from the general practitioner whenever possible.

British Medical Journal

If studies did not meet the methods specified, we did not scrutinize further, and if eligibility was unclear, we sought clarification from the study authors.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

"The government has always made it clear that if necessary, the process can be 'paused' while we seek clarification on unresolved issues.

BBC

"It wasn't very clear what he meant and we've sought clarification," she said.

The New York Times

"We have sought clarification from the D.P.R.K. about its decision and have made every effort so that Ambassador King's trip could continue as planned or take place at a later date".

The New York Times

"We have sought clarification from the DPRK [North Korea] about its decision and have made every effort so that Ambassador King's trip could continue as planned or take place at a later date," Ms Harf said in a statement.

BBC

We have also sought clarification from the editor on what a "classifier" would be.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger verbs like 'demanded', 'insisted', or 'pressed' clarification when the situation involves urgency or a need for accountability. For example, when there is doubt about the validity of a signed contract or a misunderstanding, consider "We pushed for further clarification on the matter."

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "we sought clarification" without providing specific details about the issue. Overusing it can make your writing seem vague and lacking in substance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we sought clarification" functions as a concise way to describe a request for further details or explanation. Ludwig AI's examples show its use in various contexts like news, science, and formal communication. It often acts as a statement of action taken to resolve ambiguity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we sought clarification" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for indicating a request for further explanation or details. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal communications. The phrase's neutral to professional register makes it suitable for conveying diligence and seriousness in gathering necessary information. Consider alternatives like "we asked for details" for a more direct approach or "we requested further details" for enhanced formality. Remember to always provide context when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we asked for details

Focuses on requesting specific pieces of information.

we inquired for further information

More formal way of asking for more information.

we requested further details

Highlights the act of formally requesting additional specifics.

we probed for explanations

Emphasizes a deeper investigation to understand reasons behind something.

we tried to get to the bottom of it

Expresses an effort to uncover the fundamental truth or cause.

we aimed to clarify the matter

Highlights the intention to bring clarity to an issue.

we looked for a better understanding

Focuses on seeking a comprehensive grasp of the subject.

we worked towards clearer insights

Shows the ongoing effort to develop better understanding.

we attempted to clear up any confusion

Focuses specifically on resolving misunderstanding or ambiguity.

we resolved to gain a clearer perspective

Conveys a determined effort to achieve an unobstructed point of view.

FAQs

How can I use "we sought clarification" in a sentence?

Use "we sought clarification" to indicate that you requested additional information to understand something better. For example, "We sought clarification on the new policy before implementing it."

What is a more formal way to say "we sought clarification"?

A more formal alternative could be "we requested clarification", which conveys the same meaning in a more professional tone.

When is it appropriate to use "we sought clarification"?

It's appropriate when you need to express that your team or organization formally asked for more details to resolve confusion or ambiguity regarding a specific issue or directive.

What's the difference between "we sought clarification" and "we asked for clarification"?

While both phrases are similar, "we sought clarification" often implies a more formal or official request for detailed explanation, whereas "we asked for clarification" is a more general expression.