would like to clarify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'would like to clarify' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to indicate a desire to explain or provide more information about something. For example, "I would like to clarify that the deadline for submitting the project is tomorrow at 5 pm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I would like to clarify a few things.

The New York Times

I would like to clarify the O.E.C.D.'s position.

The New York Times

"I would like to clarify this," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

We would like to clarify a few key points.

The Guardian

However, I would like to clarify several points.

The New York Times

I would like to clarify what I meant to say.

The New York Times

We would like to clarify the relationship between deformation and piezoelectric catalytic performance.

Nano Energy

As a transformative mediator, I would like to clarify the goal of this type of mediation.

Harvard University

I would like to clarify that the arguments always occurred after the fact of publication.

The Economist

In the meantime, here are a few of the headlines he would like to clarify.

Independent

The singer would like to clarify once again that she is not fond of Cyrus' antics.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "would like to clarify", ensure that the clarification directly addresses a specific point or potential misunderstanding. Be precise in your explanation to avoid further confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "would like to clarify" as a mere filler. Always follow it with concrete details or explanations. For example, instead of saying "I would like to clarify my previous statement", provide the corrected or expanded information immediately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "would like to clarify" functions as a polite and formal way to introduce a statement aimed at providing further explanation, correction, or additional details. Ludwig examples show it's frequently used in professional and academic contexts to avoid misunderstandings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "would like to clarify" is a versatile and frequently used expression for introducing explanations or corrections. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in professional, academic, and news-related settings. While alternatives like ""wish to elaborate"" or ""want to explain further"" exist, it's important to use the phrase judiciously and ensure any clarification is specific and clear. Avoid using it as a mere filler without providing substantive details to prevent potential confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

want to explain further

Slightly less formal, focusing on providing a more detailed explanation.

find it important to explain

Highlights the importance of the explanation.

wish to elaborate

More formal alternative, emphasizing the provision of additional details.

would like to expand on

Focuses on adding more information to a previous statement.

desire to correct

Emphasizes rectifying an inaccuracy or misunderstanding.

intend to set straight

Suggests a strong intent to correct misinformation.

intend to offer clarity

Similar to 'aim to shed light on' but more direct.

aim to shed light on

Focuses on providing clarity and understanding.

feel compelled to address

Highlights a sense of obligation to respond to something.

deem it necessary to clarify

A very formal way to express the need for clarification.

FAQs

How can I use "would like to clarify" in a sentence?

You can use "would like to clarify" to introduce an explanation or correction, for example: "I "would like to clarify" that the meeting has been rescheduled for next week".

What are some alternatives to "would like to clarify"?

Some alternatives include "wish to elaborate", "want to explain further", or "desire to correct", depending on the context.

Which is more appropriate, "would like to clarify" or "need to clarify"?

"Would like to clarify" is generally more polite and less demanding than "need to clarify". The best choice depends on the context and your relationship with the audience.

What's the difference between "would like to clarify" and "would like to explain"?

"Would like to clarify" typically suggests correcting a misunderstanding or providing additional details for something already mentioned, while "would like to explain" implies providing a new explanation or more comprehensive information about a topic.