In 15 Seconds
- Used to clear up confusion professionally.
- Ideal for formal emails and essays.
- Signals a precise, detailed explanation follows.
- Avoid using in casual, friendly conversations.
Meaning
This phrase is a professional way to say "let me explain this clearly." It is used to remove confusion from a serious or complex situation. It feels authoritative, helpful, and very precise.
Key Examples
3 of 10Professional email to a client
To clarify this matter, the contract will be signed on Monday.
To clarify this matter, the contract will be signed on Monday.
Academic essay on economics
To clarify this matter, we must examine the primary data sources.
To clarify this matter, we must examine the primary data sources.
Texting a friend (Mistake)
✗ To clarify this matter, I am arriving at the bar in five minutes. -> ✓ I'll be there in five minutes!
✗ To clarify this matter, I am arriving at the bar in five minutes. -> ✓ I'll be there in five minutes!
Cultural Background
In American business culture, 'to clarify this matter' is often used as a 'polite hammer.' It sounds professional but signals that the speaker is firm and will not tolerate further confusion. British speakers may use this phrase to introduce a correction with a 'polite distance.' It avoids personalizing the mistake (e.g., 'You are wrong') by focusing on the 'matter' instead. When using the English phrase in Japan, be aware that its directness can be startling. It is often best preceded by an apology for the need to clarify, such as 'I am sorry to interrupt, but to clarify this matter...' German professionals value the precision this phrase offers. It aligns with the cultural preference for 'Sachlichkeit' (objectivity/matter-of-factness).
The 'Email Opener'
Use this phrase as the very first sentence of a reply to a confusing email. it immediately signals professionalism and intent.
Don't Overuse
If you use this phrase three times in one meeting, you will sound like a lawyer. Use it once for the most important point.
In 15 Seconds
- Used to clear up confusion professionally.
- Ideal for formal emails and essays.
- Signals a precise, detailed explanation follows.
- Avoid using in casual, friendly conversations.
What It Means
Imagine you are in a Zoom meeting.
Everyone looks very confused.
The project details are a mess.
You need to fix the confusion.
You say to clarify this matter.
Suddenly, everyone understands your point.
It is like a mental reset button.
It clears the foggy air instantly.
This phrase sounds very professional.
It shows you are in control.
It also shows you care about details.
Don't use it for small things.
Save it for important topics.
It has a serious, helpful vibe.
What It Means
This phrase is like a bright flashlight.
It shines light on a dark problem.
Use it when a topic is complex.
It signals that an explanation is coming.
You want to avoid any future mistakes.
It is not just about talking.
It is about being 100% understood.
Think of it as a professional bridge.
It connects confusion to total clarity.
How To Use It
Put it at the start of sentences.
It usually follows a confusing statement.
Use a comma after the phrase.
Example: To clarify this matter, I agree.
You can also put it later.
Example: We need to clarify this matter now.
It works best in formal writing.
Emails and reports love this phrase.
It helps you sound like a leader.
Keep your follow-up sentence very short.
Formality & Register
This is a high-level formal expression.
It belongs in the very_formal category.
Do not use it with close friends.
They might think you are a lawyer.
Use it in business and academia.
It is perfect for HR emails.
It works well in legal documents too.
On the LinkedIn scale, it is 10/10.
On the WhatsApp scale, it is 2/10.
Unless you are firing someone via text.
(Please do not do that, though.)
Real-Life Examples
You are writing a formal essay.
You want to explain a difficult theory.
Start the paragraph with this phrase.
You are replying to a customer complaint.
They think they were overcharged.
Use it to explain the bill details.
You see a complex thread on Reddit.
Someone is spreading false information.
You step in to clarify this matter.
It adds weight to your correction.
When To Use It
Use it during professional disputes.
Use it in academic research papers.
Use it when instructions are misunderstood.
It is great for technical documentation.
Use it during a job interview.
If the interviewer looks slightly lost.
It shows you have great communication skills.
It is a powerful tool for clarity.
Use it when money is involved.
Financial errors always need precise clarification.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it at dinner.
"To clarify this matter, I want salt."
That sounds way too robotic.
Avoid it in casual group chats.
Your friends will definitely tease you.
Do not use it for simple facts.
"To clarify this matter, the sun is hot."
That is just being too dramatic.
It feels heavy and very serious.
Don't use it when you are joking.
Common Mistakes
✗ To clarify on this matter...
✓ To clarify this matter...
Do not add the word on here.
✗ For clarify this matter...
✓ To clarify this matter...
Always use the infinitive to first.
✗ To clarify these matters...
✓ To clarify this matter...
Usually, we focus on one specific issue.
Using matters makes it sound messy.
Common Variations
To clear things up is informal.
Use that with your best friend.
To be more precise is neutral.
To elucidate the situation is very fancy.
Save that for your PhD thesis.
To set the record straight is aggressive.
Use that when you are angry.
To put it simply is for beginners.
To clarify this matter is the gold standard.
Real Conversations
Manager
Employee
To clarify this matter, the email said Tuesday.Manager
Customer
Support
To clarify this matter, there was a snowstorm.Customer
Friend A: Why are you talking like a robot?
Friend B: I'm practicing to clarify this matter for work!
Quick FAQ
Can I use this in an email?
Yes, it is perfect for business emails.
Is it better than "I mean"?
Yes, it sounds much more professional.
Does "matter" mean "problem" here?
Yes, it usually refers to an issue.
Should I use a comma after it?
Yes, always use a comma for flow.
Is it okay for IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes, it will help your writing score.
Is it British or American English?
It is used equally in both countries.
Usage Notes
Use this phrase sparingly to maintain its impact. It is most effective at the beginning of a paragraph or a key email response. Remember to always follow it with a factual, clear statement.
The 'Email Opener'
Use this phrase as the very first sentence of a reply to a confusing email. it immediately signals professionalism and intent.
Don't Overuse
If you use this phrase three times in one meeting, you will sound like a lawyer. Use it once for the most important point.
Softening the Blow
If you are correcting a superior, add 'If I may' before the phrase: 'If I may, to clarify this matter...'
Examples
10To clarify this matter, the contract will be signed on Monday.
To clarify this matter, the contract will be signed on Monday.
Sets a clear expectation in a business context.
To clarify this matter, we must examine the primary data sources.
To clarify this matter, we must examine the primary data sources.
Transitions from a general statement to a specific analysis.
✗ To clarify this matter, I am arriving at the bar in five minutes. -> ✓ I'll be there in five minutes!
✗ To clarify this matter, I am arriving at the bar in five minutes. -> ✓ I'll be there in five minutes!
The original is too stiff for a casual social outing.
To clarify this matter once and for all: I am not moving to London.
To clarify this matter once and for all: I am not moving to London.
Used to stop gossip on social media platforms.
To clarify this matter, my previous role focused heavily on project management.
To clarify this matter, my previous role focused heavily on project management.
Provides specific detail when an interviewer asks for clarification.
To clarify this matter, your refund was processed three days ago.
To clarify this matter, your refund was processed three days ago.
Reassures a customer with factual information.
✗ I would like to clarify on this matter regarding the bill. -> ✓ I would like to clarify this matter regarding the bill.
✗ I would like to clarify on this matter regarding the bill. -> ✓ I would like to clarify this matter regarding the bill.
Learners often add 'on', but it is incorrect here.
To clarify this matter, the cat was the one who broke the vase, not me.
To clarify this matter, the cat was the one who broke the vase, not me.
Uses formal language for a funny, trivial situation.
To clarify this matter, the app showed a free delivery promotion.
To clarify this matter, the app showed a free delivery promotion.
Used to point out a discrepancy in a service app.
To clarify this matter, I only said that because I was scared of losing you.
To clarify this matter, I only said that because I was scared of losing you.
Adds a serious, almost clinical weight to an emotional confession.
Test Yourself
Complete the formal email sentence.
I am writing to ________ this matter regarding the disputed charges on my account.
'Clarify' is the most formal and grammatically correct choice here.
Which sentence is most appropriate for a legal deposition?
The lawyer stood up and said:
This option uses the correct formal register and precise terminology.
Match the phrase variation to the correct context.
1. 'To clarify this matter...' | 2. 'To clear the air...' | 3. 'To be clear...'
'Clarify this matter' is for facts/business; 'Clear the air' is for emotions; 'To be clear' is for emphasis.
Choose the best response to the interviewer's question.
Interviewer: 'It seems you lack experience in Python.' | Candidate: '________, I have used Python for data analysis in my last three projects.'
This is the standard, grammatically correct formal opening for a correction.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Formal vs. Informal Clarity
Practice Bank
4 exercisesI am writing to ________ this matter regarding the disputed charges on my account.
'Clarify' is the most formal and grammatically correct choice here.
The lawyer stood up and said:
This option uses the correct formal register and precise terminology.
1. 'To clarify this matter...' | 2. 'To clear the air...' | 3. 'To be clear...'
'Clarify this matter' is for facts/business; 'Clear the air' is for emotions; 'To be clear' is for emphasis.
Interviewer: 'It seems you lack experience in Python.' | Candidate: '________, I have used Python for data analysis in my last three projects.'
This is the standard, grammatically correct formal opening for a correction.
🎉 Score: /4
Video Tutorials
Find video tutorials on YouTube for this phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it is much too formal for a standard text. Use 'Just to be clear' or 'To clear things up' instead.
Yes, 'issue' is a very common synonym for 'matter' and is equally formal.
'Clarify' is more specific. 'Explain' can mean teaching something new, while 'clarify' usually means making an existing (but confusing) thing understandable.
Both are correct. 'This' is more common when you have just been talking about the specific problem.
Yes, it is excellent for academic writing when you are distinguishing between two similar theories or concepts.
No, it is professional. However, your tone of voice should be helpful, not condescending.
The noun form is 'clarification.' You might say, 'I would like to offer a clarification.'
Yes, in cooking (clarifying butter) or science (clarifying a liquid), but 'to clarify this matter' is strictly for information.
Yes, it is used throughout the English-speaking world in formal contexts.
To 'obfuscate' or 'confuse' the matter.
Related Phrases
To clear the air
similarTo resolve hidden resentment or tension.
To set the record straight
similarTo correct a public mistake or falsehood.
To be clear
specialized formA shorter, more direct way to emphasize a point.
To shed light on
similarTo provide new information that helps understanding.
