Is clarify formal or informal?

No, it is common in both speaking and writing.

What's the difference between clarify and explain?

Use explain or detail to add specifics; clarify focuses on removing confusion.

How do I use clarify in a sentence?

How can I clarify my point in an essay?

Is clarify used in business writing?

Yes, it is very common in academic and professional writing.

← Dictionary

clarify

/ˈklær.ə.faɪ/

IELTSAcademic

verb

make something clear or easier to understand

Please clarify what you need from me.
The teacher clarified the rule.

Adinary Nuance

Near-neighbors: clarify is stronger than make clear and more direct than simplify; writers choose clarify when they focus on removing confusion rather than simplifying content.

In other languages

Spanish: clarificar
Japanese: 明確にする
Korean: 명확히하다
Vietnamese: làm rõ
Chinese: 澄清

Etymology

Common phrases

clarify your pointclarify the issueclarify instructions

Synonyms

explain make clear define specify elucidate

Frequently asked questions

Is clarify formal or informal?: No, it is common in both speaking and writing.
What's the difference between clarify and explain?: Use explain or detail to add specifics; clarify focuses on removing confusion.
How do I use clarify in a sentence?: How can I clarify my point in an essay?
Is clarify used in business writing?: Yes, it is very common in academic and professional writing.