Cross-language communication
Ask for clarification when you did not understand
Say what you missed, ask one narrow question and request the information in writing if it matters. Keep each phrase short enough to say aloud. Thank the person, but do not say "yes" or "okay" until you know what you are agreeing to.
A text to start with
Someone speaking [language] told me something about [topic], and I did not understand [the unclear part]. Write three short, polite phrases: one asking them to repeat or slow down, one asking about that specific part, and one asking them to write it down or send it in writing. Add a brief thank-you. Include pronunciation hints and plain-English meanings.
Example request. Change the details to fit your situation.Clarification request sheet
Person or organization: [ ] Language: [ ] Topic: [ ] What I did not understand: [ ] Phrase asking for repetition: [ ] Shorter, specific question: [ ] Phrase requesting it in writing: [ ] Thank-you phrase: [ ] Phrases that might sound like agreement: [ ] What they said after I asked: [ ] Still unclear: [ ] Decision I will not make until this is clear: [ ]
Phrases that imply understanding
Watch for stock phrases that signal agreement, such as "okay, thank you, understood." The other person may hear them as consent. Check that each phrase asks a question or states what you missed, and that the thank-you comes after the question. Match formality to the person, since a form that suits a friend can sound abrupt to an official. Ask for a back-translation to confirm the phrase means "could you say that again" and not something that sounds critical.
Ask another agent to check the result
Check these clarification phrases for wording that could sound as if I understood or agreed to the speaker's original message. Flag phrases like "okay" or "understood," check formality for the situation, and confirm each phrase is a question or a statement of what I missed. Suggest safer replacements.
Practice and carry the phrases
Say each phrase aloud a few times and keep the written versions within reach, such as in your phone's notes. If the information affects a deadline, a cost or a rule, ask for it in writing and read it with a translation tool or a fluent friend before acting. Afterward, note what you learned so you do not need to ask twice.