Translation guide
How to ask for or give clarification in Japanese, from polite requests to casual confirmation.
The speaker wants someone to repeat, explain, or rephrase something they didn't catch or understand.
Polite and standard way to ask someone to say something again. Suitable for most situations.
The speaker wants to make their own statement clearer or rephrase something.
The speaker wants to check if the listener understood, or confirm their own understanding.
Standard way to ask 'Did you understand?' Can sound teacher-like if overused.
The English noun 'clarification' is often translated as 明確化 (meikakuka) or 説明 (setsumei), but in natural conversation, Japanese speakers usually use verb phrases or set expressions to ask for or give clarification. Using the noun directly can sound stiff or unnatural.
Could you explain a bit more? (natural)
Sorry, could you say that again?
Directly asks 'What does that mean?' Use when you need an explanation, not just repetition.
What does that word mean?
Polite request for a more detailed explanation. Useful in formal or business settings.
Could you explain that point in a little more detail?
Very casual interjection used when you didn't hear or understand. Only with close friends or family.
Huh? What did you say?
I'll go tomorrow, that is, on Friday.
Means 'to be specific' or 'concretely speaking'. Used when giving a concrete example or detail.
There's a problem. Specifically, we don't have enough budget.
Literally 'if I rephrase it'. Used to offer an alternative wording. Slightly formal.
This plan is high-risk. In other words, there's a high chance of failure.
Any questions so far? Did you understand?
Formal confirmation phrase used in business to verify a summary or decision. Attach to a noun or clause.
So, just to confirm, the meeting is next Monday, correct?
Used to confirm your interpretation: 'So, you mean that...?' Insert the interpreted point before ということですか.
So, you mean you can't come tomorrow?
Please provide clarification. (unnatural in most contexts)