English · Natural expressions
How to clarify a meaning in English
Clarification works best when you identify the unclear part. Ask about a word, check a possible interpretation, or request an example that makes the meaning concrete.
Koi word samajh nahi aaya? Usi word ke baare mein poochhein ya ek example maangein.
Choose the expression that fits
Expression 1
What does this word mean?
इस शब्द का क्या मतलब है?
is shabd ka kya matlab hai?
Ask about one unfamiliar word.
Expression 2
Do you mean that we should leave now?
क्या आपका मतलब है कि हमें अब चलना चाहिए?
kya aapka matlab hai ki hamein ab chalna chahiye?
Check whether you have understood the person's intended message.
Expression 3
Could you explain that with an example?
क्या आप इसे एक उदाहरण देकर समझा सकते हैं?
kya aap ise ek udaaharan dekar samjha sakte hain?
Ask for a concrete example when a definition is not enough.
What to watch for
In “Do you mean ...?”, mean refers to intended meaning. It does not mean an average or an unkind person. Follow the phrase with the interpretation you want to check.
See it in a short conversation
An unfamiliar word in a sentence
Partner
There's a new word in this sentence.
Show Hindi meaning
इस वाक्य में एक नया शब्द है।
is vaakya mein ek naya shabd hai.
You
What does this word mean?
Show Hindi meaning
इस शब्द का क्या मतलब है?
is shabd ka kya matlab hai?
Checking whether it is time to leave
Partner
We don't have much time.
Show Hindi meaning
हमारे पास ज़्यादा समय नहीं है।
hamaare paas zyaada samay nahi hai.
You
Do you mean that we should leave now?
Show Hindi meaning
क्या आपका मतलब है कि हमें अब चलना चाहिए?
kya aapka matlab hai ki hamein ab chalna chahiye?
Your turn
You understand the words but not how the idea works. Ask for an explanation with an example.
Reveal sample reply
Could you explain that with an example?
क्या आप इसे एक उदाहरण देकर समझा सकते हैं?
kya aap ise ek udaaharan dekar samjha sakte hain?
