Expressing that something “doesn’t make sense” can be a delicate matter, especially in formal or polite conversations. It’s important to communicate your confusion or lack of understanding without coming across as rude or dismissive. In this guide, we’ll provide you with various ways to express that something doesn’t make sense politely. We’ll cover both formal and informal approaches, focusing on tips and examples to help you navigate these situations with ease.
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Formal Ways to Say “Doesn’t Make Sense”
When engaging in formal settings, it’s crucial to maintain a respectful tone. Here are some phrases you can use to convey your confusion with grace:
1. I’m struggling to grasp the concept.
This phrase acknowledges your difficulty in understanding without placing blame on the other person. It suggests a personal struggle rather than assuming the fault lies with their explanation.
2. I’m having trouble following your reasoning.
This statement implies that you genuinely appreciate the speaker’s effort but are finding it challenging to comprehend their logic. Highlighting that the issue lies with the “reasoning” rather than the person can help avoid offense.
3. I’m sorry, but I’m not quite able to connect the dots.
Using this expression demonstrates a willingness to understand but acknowledges that you’re missing a crucial connection. It suggests there might be a gap in information or steps required for comprehension.
Informal Ways to Say “Doesn’t Make Sense”
In casual conversations or with close acquaintances, you can utilize more relaxed language while still maintaining politeness. Here are some informal phrases you can use to express confusion in a friendly manner:
1. I’m a bit lost here, could you clarify?
This expression conveys a sense of openness and curiosity. It assures the speaker that you genuinely want to understand their point but need further explanation.
2. I’m not quite getting what you mean, mind elaborating?
By stating that you’re not fully understanding what the person is saying, you provide an opportunity for them to clarify without raising any defensive barriers. The use of “mind elaborating?” makes it clear that you value their input.
3. Sorry, could you break it down a bit more? I’m having trouble following along.
This phrase shows humility and a willingness to admit difficulty. By requesting the information to be broken down, you allow the speaker to offer a different perspective or simplified explanation.
Examples in Context
Let’s consider some scenarios to better illustrate the use of these phrases:
Formal: During a work meeting, you can say, “I’m struggling to grasp the concept outlined in the report. Would you mind providing some additional context?”
Informal: In a casual discussion with a friend, you might say, “Sorry, but I’m not quite able to connect the dots. Can you give me an example to help me understand?”
Remember, it’s essential to adapt the expressions to the specific context and your relationship with the person. These examples should serve as a guide, but ultimately, your tone and approach will depend on the individual circumstances.
Conclusion
When expressing that something doesn’t make sense politely, it’s crucial to focus on your own struggle to understand rather than placing blame on others. Both formal and informal situations call for a respectful tone. In formal settings, phrases like “I’m struggling to grasp the concept” or “I’m having trouble following your reasoning” can convey your confusion without being offensive. In informal situations, you can use expressions like “I’m a bit lost here, could you clarify?” or “I’m not quite getting what you mean, mind elaborating?” to show your interest in understanding while maintaining a friendly atmosphere.
Remember, effective communication is about finding common ground and seeking clarity. By using these phrases and tailoring them to your specific situation, you can navigate conversations smoothly even when faced with complex or confusing information.
