In Unit 2.5, we talked about the importance of checking to see if we understand each other in a conversation.

Misunderstandings do occur in conversations.  When someone misunderstood what you said, how can you point that out?

Or, when you are not quite sure what the other person is saying, what can you say to encourage the person to give you an explanation?

Below are some useful expressions which you can use.

• When You Are Misunderstood

• That's not what I meant.

• That's not what I said.

• I didn't mean that.

• I didn't say that.

• You've got me wrong.

• I didn't mean to give you that impression.

• When You Want an Explanation

• What exactly are you trying to say?

• What do you mean to tell me?

• What's your point?

• I didn't get that.

Example: 

Dialog 1:  (between a man and his girlfriend) 

• Jim:   I really envy Scott.  His girlfriend is so beautiful and cute.   

• Ann:  What exactly are you trying to say?  Am I not cute and beautiful?

• Jim:   No!  I didn't say that...

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