Top 30 Slang For Clarify – Meaning & Usage

Are you tired of feeling confused in conversations and not being able to keep up with the latest slang for clarifying things? Look no further! Our team has put together a list of the top slang terms for clarify that will have you feeling like a language pro in no time. Say goodbye to misunderstandings and hello to clarity with our handy guide. Get ready to level up your communication skills and impress everyone with your newfound slang knowledge!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Break it down

This phrase is used to ask someone to explain something in a simpler or more understandable way.

For example, if someone is struggling to understand a complex concept, they might say, “Can you break it down for me?”
In a math class, a teacher might say, “Let’s break down this equation step by step.”
A presenter might say, “I’ll break down the main points of my presentation for you.”

2. Spell it out

This phrase is used to request clear and specific information or instructions.

For instance, if someone is giving vague directions, you might say, “Can you spell it out for me?”
In a cooking recipe, the instructions might say, “Spell out the measurements for the ingredients.”
A manager might say to an employee, “I need you to spell out the steps for completing this task.”

3. Lay it out

This phrase is used to ask someone to provide a clear and organized explanation or presentation of information.

For example, if someone is giving a confusing explanation, you might say, “Can you lay it out for me?”
In a business meeting, a presenter might say, “Let me lay out the plan for the upcoming project.”
A teacher might instruct their students, “Please lay out your ideas in a logical order for your essay.”

4. Break it down for me

This phrase is used to ask someone to explain something in a way that is easy to understand or digest.

For instance, if someone is discussing a complicated process, you might say, “Can you break it down for me?”
In a dance class, an instructor might say, “Let me break down the steps for this routine.”
A friend might say, “I don’t understand this concept, can you break it down for me?”

5. Make it clear

This phrase is used to request that someone provide a clear and unambiguous explanation or instruction.

For example, if someone is giving unclear directions, you might say, “Can you make it clear?”
In a classroom, a teacher might say, “I want to make it clear that cheating is not allowed.”
A coach might say to their team, “Let’s make it clear what our goals are for this season.”

6. Elaborate

When someone is asked to elaborate, they are being asked to provide more information or give more details about a certain topic or situation.

For example, if someone says, “Can you elaborate on your point?”, they are asking for further explanation.
In a discussion about a complex concept, someone might say, “Can you elaborate on how that works?”
A teacher might ask a student, “Can you elaborate on your answer to question number three?”

7. Shed some light

When someone sheds some light on a topic, they are providing clarification or understanding about it. This phrase is often used when someone shares new information or insights that help others understand a situation better.

For instance, if someone says, “Could you shed some light on this issue?”, they are asking for more information to gain a better understanding.
In a news article, a journalist might write, “The new study sheds some light on the causes of climate change.”
A colleague might say, “I attended a conference that shed some light on the latest industry trends.”

8. Clear the air

When someone clears the air, they are resolving a misunderstanding or tension between people by addressing and discussing the issue openly.

For example, if two friends have a disagreement, they might clear the air by having an honest conversation about their feelings.
In a workplace setting, a manager might say, “Let’s have a team meeting to clear the air and address any concerns.”
A couple in a relationship might decide to clear the air by having a calm and open discussion about their issues.

9. Get to the bottom of it

When someone wants to get to the bottom of something, they want to find the underlying cause or truth behind a certain situation or issue.

For instance, if there is a mystery or problem, someone might say, “We need to get to the bottom of this and find out what really happened.”
In a detective story, the protagonist might say, “I won’t rest until I get to the bottom of this case.”
A journalist investigating a scandal might say, “I’m determined to get to the bottom of this story and expose the truth.”

10. Iron out the details

When someone wants to iron out the details, they want to resolve or finalize the specific aspects or plans of a certain project, event, or agreement.

For example, if two parties are negotiating a contract, they might say, “Let’s meet next week to iron out the details.”
In event planning, a coordinator might say, “We still need to iron out the details of the schedule and logistics.”
A couple planning their wedding might say, “We’re meeting with the venue coordinator to iron out the details of the ceremony and reception.”

11. Get it straight

This phrase means to fully comprehend or have a clear understanding of something.

For example, if someone is explaining a complicated concept, you might say, “I need to get it straight before we move on.”
In a conversation about a misunderstanding, you might say, “Let’s get it straight so we’re on the same page.”
If someone is confused about a set of instructions, you might say, “Let me help you get it straight.”

12. Simplify

This word means to make something less complex or easier to understand.

For instance, if someone is explaining a difficult process, you might say, “Can you simplify it for me?”
In a discussion about a complicated topic, you might say, “Let’s simplify the information so everyone can follow.”
If someone is struggling to grasp a concept, you might say, “I’ll try to simplify it for you.”

13. Get the facts straight

This phrase means to verify or confirm the accuracy of information.

For example, if someone is spreading false rumors, you might say, “Let’s get the facts straight before jumping to conclusions.”
In a debate or argument, you might say, “Before we continue, let’s get the facts straight.”
If someone is misrepresenting a situation, you might say, “I want to get the facts straight before making any judgments.”

14. Nail it down

This phrase means to establish or finalize something with precision or accuracy.

For instance, if someone is planning an event, you might say, “Let’s nail down the details before sending out invitations.”
In a business context, you might say, “We need to nail down the budget before moving forward.”
If someone is unsure about their decision, you might say, “Take your time to nail it down before committing.”

15. Lay it on the line

This phrase means to be straightforward, honest, and clear in communication.

For example, if someone is avoiding the truth, you might say, “Just lay it on the line and tell me what’s really going on.”
In a serious conversation, you might say, “I’m going to lay it on the line and be completely honest with you.”
If someone is being vague or ambiguous, you might say, “Stop beating around the bush and lay it on the line.”

16. Untangle

When faced with a complex issue, it’s important to take a step back and untangle the various factors involved.

For example, a detective might say, “I need to untangle the web of clues to solve this mystery.”
In a discussion about a complicated relationship, someone might say, “Let’s untangle the emotions and figure out what’s really going on.”
A teacher might tell their students, “Take your time to untangle the math problem and break it down step by step.”

17. Make sense of it

When faced with a complex concept, it’s important to take the time to make sense of it and ensure a clear understanding.

For instance, a student might say, “I need to make sense of this math equation before I can solve it.”
In a conversation about a convoluted plot in a movie, someone might say, “I’m trying to make sense of all the twists and turns.”
A person discussing a complicated legal document might say, “I need a lawyer to help me make sense of all the legalese.”

18. Get the lowdown

When you want to fully understand something, it’s important to get the lowdown and gather all the relevant information.

For example, a journalist might say, “I need to interview key sources to get the lowdown on this breaking news.”
In a discussion about a new restaurant, someone might say, “I’ll ask my friend who works there to get the lowdown on the menu.”
A person planning a trip might say, “I need to get the lowdown on the best attractions and activities in that city.”

19. Sort it out

When faced with a messy or confusing situation, it’s important to take the time to sort it out and bring order to the chaos.

For instance, a manager might say, “Let’s have a team meeting to sort out the issues and come up with a plan.”
In a discussion about a disagreement, someone might say, “We need to sit down and sort out our differences.”
A person dealing with a cluttered room might say, “I need to sort out all these belongings and organize them properly.”

20. Put it in plain English

When faced with complex or technical jargon, it’s important to put it in plain English so that everyone can understand.

For example, a teacher might say, “I’ll put the instructions in plain English so that all the students can follow.”
In a discussion about a complicated scientific concept, someone might say, “Can you put it in plain English? I’m having trouble understanding.”
A person explaining a complex legal document might say, “Let me put it in plain English for you, so you know exactly what it means.”

21. Make it easy to understand

This phrase means to present information or explain something in a way that is clear and easy to comprehend. It suggests breaking down complex concepts or using simple language to ensure understanding.

For example, a teacher might say, “Let’s make this equation easy to understand by using real-life examples.”
In a presentation, a speaker might say, “I want to make it easy to understand how this new technology works.”
A writer might aim to “make it easy to understand” by using clear and concise language in an article.

22. Get it off my chest

To express or share something that has been bothering or weighing on someone’s mind. It implies a need to release emotions or thoughts by talking or writing about them.

For instance, a person might say, “I need to get it off my chest and tell you how I really feel.”
In a therapy session, a client might say, “I’ve been carrying this secret for years, and I finally need to get it off my chest.”
In a blog post, a writer might say, “I’m going to get it off my chest and share my personal experiences with mental health.”

23. Make it perfectly clear

This phrase means to state or explain something in a way that leaves no room for confusion or misunderstanding. It suggests being direct and specific to ensure that the message is understood clearly.

For example, a manager might say, “I want to make it perfectly clear that this behavior is not acceptable.”
In a debate, a participant might say, “Let me make it perfectly clear: I am in favor of stricter gun control.”
A teacher might say, “I want to make it perfectly clear what the expectations are for this assignment.”

24. Get the point across

To successfully communicate or express an idea or message so that others understand it. It implies the need to effectively deliver information or make a persuasive argument.

For instance, a presenter might say, “I used visuals to get the point across during my speech.”
In a conversation, a person might say, “I tried to get the point across that we need to address climate change.”
A writer might say, “In this article, I want to get the point across that exercise is essential for overall well-being.”

25. Get the full picture

To have a complete understanding or grasp of a situation, topic, or concept. It suggests the need to gather all relevant information or perspectives to form a comprehensive understanding.

For example, a detective might say, “We need to gather more evidence to get the full picture of what happened.”
In a discussion about a complex issue, a participant might say, “We need to consider multiple viewpoints to get the full picture.”
A journalist might say, “I interviewed various sources to get the full picture of the controversial event.”

26. Get the skinny

This phrase means to obtain all the necessary information or the most up-to-date information about a particular situation or topic. It is often used informally in conversation or casual settings.

For example, if someone asks, “What’s the skinny on that new restaurant?” they are asking for all the details or inside information about the restaurant.
In a workplace setting, a colleague might say, “I’ll get the skinny on the upcoming meeting and let you know the important points.”
A friend might ask, “Did you get the skinny on the party? I want to know all the juicy details.”

27. Get the 411

This phrase is derived from the telephone number for directory assistance in the United States. It means to obtain the necessary information or the most up-to-date information about a particular situation or topic.

For instance, if someone says, “I need to get the 411 on that new movie,” they are expressing their desire to gather all the relevant information about the movie.
In a social setting, a person might ask, “Can you get the 411 on the event this weekend? I want to know what to expect.”
A colleague might say, “I’ll get the 411 on the project timeline and update you with the latest information.”

28. Get the inside scoop

This phrase means to obtain the inside or exclusive information about a particular situation or topic. It is often used when someone wants to know the details that are not publicly known or widely available.

For example, if someone asks, “Can you get the inside scoop on the celebrity gossip?” they are requesting information that is not readily accessible to the general public.
In a newsroom setting, a journalist might say, “I’ll try to get the inside scoop on the upcoming political scandal and report it to the public.”
A friend might ask, “Did you get the inside scoop on the new restaurant? I want to know if it’s worth trying.”

29. Get the full story

This phrase means to obtain all the necessary or relevant information about a particular situation or topic. It implies the desire to have a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

For instance, if someone says, “I need to get the full story on that controversy,” they are expressing their need to know all the details and background information related to the controversy.
In a legal setting, a lawyer might say, “We need to get the full story from the witnesses before proceeding with the case.”
A friend might ask, “Did you get the full story about what happened at the party? I want to know everything that happened.”

30. Get the real deal

This phrase means to obtain the true or authentic information about a particular situation or topic. It implies the desire to know the genuine facts or details, rather than rumors or hearsay.

For example, if someone says, “I want to get the real deal on that product before buying it,” they are expressing their need to know the genuine information about the product’s features, performance, and value.
In a business setting, a manager might say, “Let’s get the real deal on the company’s financial situation before making any decisions.”
A friend might ask, “Did you get the real deal on what happened between them? I want to know the truth.”