Clarifying: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when you need to make sure something is understood or free of confusion, often in conversations or meetings.

• She spent the next few minutes clarifying her point
• The manager asked for clarifying questions before proceeding

General use, common in everyday conversations when you need to describe or make someone understand something.

• Can you explain how this machine works? She didn't understand the instructions, so I had to explain them again

More formal or academic, used when you need to make something clear or explain in detail, often in writing or presentations.

• The professor will elucidate the complex theory in her next lecture
• He elucidated the main findings of his research in the paper

Often used for emphasis, to ensure there is no misunderstanding about something, can have a slightly assertive tone.

• I want to make it clear that this behavior is not acceptable
• He made it clear that he was not interested in the offer

Used to make a statement or situation less confused and more comprehensible, often by removing ambiguity.

• She was clarifying the details of the agreement.
• Clarifying the instructions helped everyone understand the process better.

Used informally to resolve misunderstandings or to remove confusion about a particular topic.

• Let me clear up the confusion around the new policy.
• He needs to clear up the misunderstanding with his friend.

Used to find a solution to a problem, dispute, or contentious matter, often implying a formal or final decision.

• The meeting was called to resolve the conflicts between the two departments.
• They hope to resolve the issue before it becomes more serious.

Used when establishing or discovering something, often through analysis or calculation.

• Scientists are trying to determine the cause of the recent outbreak.
• The jury must determine the guilt or innocence of the accused.

Used when making something clear or easier to understand, especially after confusion or misunderstanding.

• She spent an hour clarifying the new company policies to her team.
• Thank you for clarifying the details of the assignment.

Generally used in everyday situations to describe the act of making something understandable; can be used in both informal and formal contexts.

• Can you give me an explanation of how this machine works?
• His explanation of the historical event was very detailed.

Used when explaining the meaning of something, especially in the sense of offering a personal or subjective understanding.

• Her interpretation of the poem really changed my perspective.
• The lawyer's interpretation of the contract proved to be crucial.

Often used in formal or academic settings to refer to the process of making something clear or explaining it in detail.

• The professor's elucidation of the theory was thorough and insightful.
• This book provides an elucidation of complex scientific principles.