When, on the other hand, being asked if YOU understand what the other person is saying, you should respond honestly - that is, if you don't understand, say so, and ask the person to repeat.

Below are some useful expressions which you can use.

• When You Want to Make Sure Someone Understands You

• (Do you) understand what I'm saying?

• (Do you) know what I mean?

• (Do you) know what I'm talking about?

• Does that make any sense?

• Do you follow me?

• Are you with me?

• With me so far?

• You know?

• You see?

• Right?

• When You Understand What Someone Is Saying

• I see what you're saying.

• I see what you mean.

• I know what you mean.

• I know.

• I understand what you're saying.

• I'm with you.

• I hear you.

• I hear what you're saying.

• When You Don't Understand What Someone Is Saying

   

  • I don't get it.

  • I don't follow you.

  • I'm not sure I get your point.

  • I'm not sure I know what you mean.

   

Example:

Dialog 1:  (between a father and his son) 

• Son:  I want to quit school.

• Dad:  Are you serious?

• Son:  Yeah!  I'm smart, I don't need to go to university...

• Dad:  Listen.  I don't care how smart you are, if you don't have a good education, you can't get a good job these days.  Do you know what I mean?

• Son:  Yeah, I guess.

• Dad:  Education is the most thing for you right now...

• Son:  OK, I hear you.

Dialog 2:  (between a computer instructor and a student) 

• Instructor:  To send an email, you just have to click on this button, type in the email address, or you can select an address from the address book.  Do you follow me?

• Student:     I don't get it.  What address book?