英語で「わかりません」を丁寧に伝える方法｜自然で失礼にならない言い換え
Many learners panic when they don’t understand English.
Often they say things like “I don’t understand” or “I can’t understand.”
But in English, these can sound too strong and may stop the conversation completely.
In natural English communication - especially in business - people expect you to keep the conversation moving, even when something is difficult to understand.
Let’s look at softer, more natural ways to handle this situation.
1. Why “I don’t understand” Sounds Too Strong
“I don’t understand” is correct English, but the meaning is very direct.
It suggests:
zero understanding
the conversation cannot continue
the speaker should stop completely
For many Japanese learners, this comes from translating 「わかりません」.
But the nuance is different.
In English, it sounds like a complete communication barrier - impossible to continue.
Using softer phrases makes the situation easier for both people.
2. Softer, Natural Phrases That Keep the Conversation Alive
These are better because they keep the conversation open.
When you need them to repeat:
“Sorry, what was that?”
“Could you say that again?”
“I didn’t catch that.”
When the speaker is too fast:
“Sorry, could you speak a little more slowly?”
“I’m following, but could you slow down a bit?”
“I understood some of that, could you say it again, but slower?”
When the topic is confusing:
“Sorry, I’m not quite sure I understand.”
“Could you explain that another way?”
When you understood partly:
“I understand most of it, but the end part is difficult.” (you can talk about one part of their speech)
“I got the main idea, but I’m not clear on the details.”
These show effort, not failure.
They tell the listener exactly what kind of help you need.
3. Useful Clarification Questions
These help you get more information politely:
“What do you mean by ___?”
“Could you give me an example?”
“Do you mean A or B?”
“Just to check, are you saying that…?”
These phrases are very common in business meetings and everyday conversations.
4. What Not to Say
Avoid overly negative or extreme phrases:
✘ “I don’t know English.”
✘ “I can’t understand.” / “I don’t understand.”
✘ “What?” (sounds rude or impatient)
They sound too strong, and may cause the other person to stop talking or feel uncomfortable.
Better to use soft, polite language.
5. Cultural Note: British vs American Style
British English:
British speakers often use apologetic or indirect language.
“Sorry, I didn’t quite catch that.”
“I’m not sure I understood that last part.”
This feels polite, gentle, and respectful of the speaker’s turn.
American English:
American speakers are usually more direct but still friendly.
“Can you say that again?”
“What does that mean?”
This sounds clear, confident, and smooth in fast-paced conversations.
Both styles are polite, but the tone is different.
6. Practice
Is B’s reply natural and polite (✔) or too strong/negative (✘)?
A: Could you explain that part again?
B: I can’t understand anything.
✔ or ✘ ?
A: Sorry, was that number 15 or 50?
B: I didn’t catch that. Could you repeat it?
✔ or ✘ ?
A: Do you understand the plan so far?
B: I’m not quite sure I understand.
✔ or ✘ ?
A: What do you think about this idea?
B: What?
✔ or ✘ ?
A: Let me know if anything is unclear.
B: I understand most of it, but this part is difficult.
✔ or ✘ ?
A: Are you following the discussion?
B: I don’t understand English.
✔ or ✘ ?
Conclusion
You don’t need perfect English, but you do need clear and polite communication.
Avoid saying “I don’t understand” too directly.
Use softer expressions like “I didn’t catch that” or “I’m not quite sure I understand.”
These phrases keep the conversation going, show effort, and help you sound more confident and professional.
Answer Key:
1 ✘
2 ✔
3 ✔
4 ✘
5 ✔
6 ✘