When engaging in conversations, there are often times when we need more clarity or additional information about a particular topic. Asking someone to explain further is a common practice, but the way we phrase our request can be influenced by the formality of the situation or the relationship we have with the person we are speaking to. This guide will provide you with both formal and informal ways to say “Can you explain more” and offer various tips and examples to ensure clear communication.
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Formal Ways to Ask for More Explanation
When dealing with formal situations, such as professional settings or unfamiliar acquaintances, it is essential to use more polite and respectful language. Here are a few phrases you can use:
- “Could you please elaborate further?”
This phrase is appropriate in formal settings, showing respect and professionalism. It indicates that you are interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the topic being discussed.
“I would appreciate it if you could provide more details.”
By using this phrase, you demonstrate that you value the person’s insights and knowledge. It conveys a polite request for additional information.
“If you wouldn’t mind, could you expand on that a bit?”
This phrase combines politeness and humility, expressing your willingness to listen and learn. It shows respect for the other person’s expertise.
Informal Ways to Ask for More Explanation
In more casual or informal settings, such as conversations with friends or family, you can use slightly less formal language while still maintaining respect. Consider these informal phrases:
- “Can you go into more detail?”
This simple and straightforward phrase lets the person know that you want them to expand on what they just said. It is concise and easy to understand.
“I’m a bit confused. Can you explain that a little better?”
By expressing confusion, this phrase shows that you value the person’s opinion. It encourages them to provide a clearer explanation.
“Sorry, I didn’t quite catch that. Could you explain it in simpler terms?”
This phrase acknowledges your own difficulty in grasping the concept and politely asks the person to simplify their explanation. It demonstrates your openness to learning.
Tips and Examples for Seeking Further Explanation
Regardless of whether you use a formal or informal approach, it is helpful to keep these tips in mind:
- Be respectful: It is crucial to maintain a respectful tone when seeking further explanation. This shows that you value the other person’s expertise and insights.
- Use active listening skills: Pay attention to what the person is saying and ask questions related to their previous statements. This displays your interest in the conversation and encourages them to provide more details.
- Be specific: When asking for further explanation, try to be as specific as possible about what you need clarification on. This helps the other person provide targeted information without getting sidetracked.
Example:
Person A: “I think we should implement a more collaborative workflow.”
Person B: “That sounds interesting. Could you explain how you envision this collaboration working in practice?”
By following these tips and using appropriate phrases, you can successfully ask for more explanation in a variety of situations while maintaining a warm and friendly tone of communication.
