Have you ever been in a situation at work where you had to clarify what you said?
This happens all the time at work!
It’s vital that your message is understood, and if not you may need to clarify!
Listen to today’s episode and learn how to express yourself more clearly and restate your idea in the workplace.
Clarity with words
Aubrey asks Lindsay if she ever has to clarify or restate something to make sure her meaning is clear.
Lindsay says she definitely does.
She sometimes sees something hasn’t landed with someone or they seem confused.
When you say ‘something hasn’t landed’, this means someone doesn’t really understand what you mean.
There will be moments when things make sense to you but someone else won’t get it.
Today’s episode is inspired by a listener’s question.
Today’s question
I’ve got a question. Is there any difference between ‘that being said’ and ‘that is to say’? How can we use them in different contexts?
jeonghyeonlee1624
You can check our IELTS Energy 1217: That Being Said, Change Your Mind on IELTS which is similar to today’s episode.
In it, you’ll learn phrases to use when you’re in a situation where you’re exchanging ideas at work.
Bring clarity to what you say
In a business setting, there are many discussions and conversations that you will be a part of.
These will require you to get your idea or opinion across.
It’s important to have the vocabulary to express yourself clearly.
At times, a colleague or a superior may not understand what you are saying because they can’t see the bigger picture.
Here are some phrases you can use to make sure you get your point across so that it makes sense to the person you’re talking to.
#1: That being said
This is used to say you’re acknowledging the other side or you’re aware that your point is contradicting.
Examples:
- I don’t think global warming is a huge issue. That being said, I do try to recycle.
- I think everyone should turn in proposals by Friday. That being said, I haven’t started mine so I’d better get going.
- We want to acknowledge the hard work everyone put in this quarter. That being said, we’ve had losses for the past few weeks and need to change tactics.
#2: That is to say
This phrase helps in restating or clarifying the same idea more precisely.
Examples:
- The analysts reported a huge uptick in volume of subscribers but a downward trend of one-time sales. That is to say, we need to focus on subscriptions.
- I’ve only been told what they thought I needed to know. That is to say, I haven’t been told much.
#3: Which is to say
This has a similar meaning as “that is to say…”
It reinstates clarity on details.
Examples:
- The report was turned in on Monday when it was due Friday, which is to say that it was late.
- We can’t confirm our attendance at the conference, which is to say that it is unlikely.
Roleplay
The following roleplay uses the phrases shared in today’s episode.
This will better show how they are used in conversation by native English speakers.
In this scenario, Aubrey and Lindsay are coworkers meeting with a new client.
Aubrey: The traffic was terrible – there was a wreck on I90 and I really do try to be punctual, so it was so frustrating to be stuck in that traffic jam, which is to say I’m sorry I’m late.
Lindsay: We understand. We went ahead and got started without you. That being said, we’re glad you’re here now.
Aubrey: Wonderful. I’ll get details from Lindsay about what I missed. That is to say, let’s move ahead from where you were.
Takeaway
You often need to clarify or simplify your message to make it more precise and clear at work.
This can save time and avoid miscommunications.
Today’s phrases can help you do this in a native, natural way.
What are other phrases you use to make sure someone understands your message more clearly?
We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
