35 Other Ways to Say “Does That Make Sense”

Idioms are the vibrant threads that weave richness into our everyday language. These expressions, often metaphorical and colorful, help convey complex ideas succinctly and vividly.

Understanding and using idioms can enhance communication, making it more engaging and relatable.

In this article, we explore 35 alternative ways to ask “Does that make sense?” through idiomatic expressions that can add nuance and depth to your conversations.

Is it Professional to Say “Does That Make Sense”

The phrase “Does that make sense?” is generally considered professional and is commonly used in various professional settings, including meetings, presentations, and written communications. However, its appropriateness can depend on context, tone, and audience. Here are some factors to consider:

Positive Aspects:

1. Clarity Check: It invites the listener or reader to confirm their understanding, ensuring effective communication.
2. Engagement: It encourages interaction and feedback, making the conversation more participatory.
3. Empathy: It shows that you care about the other person’s understanding and are willing to clarify if needed.

Potential Drawbacks:

1. Perception: Some might perceive it as condescending, especially if it implies that the information might be difficult to understand.
2. Frequency: Overusing the phrase can be seen as a lack of confidence in your communication skills.

Alternatives:

To avoid potential negative perceptions, you might consider using alternatives such as:

• “Is that clear?”
• “Do you have any questions about that?”
• “Does that work for you?”
• “Would you like me to elaborate on anything?”

Contextual Usage:

1. Formal Settings: In highly formal communications, you might opt for more structured phrasing, like “Please let me know if you need further clarification.”
2. Informal Settings: In more casual or collaborative environments, “Does that make sense?” can be perfectly appropriate and effective.

Example Situations:

• Meetings: After explaining a complex point, asking “Does that make sense?” can ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Emails: When giving detailed instructions, ending with “Does that make sense?” can invite the recipient to ask for clarification if needed.
• Presentations: It can be used to check understanding, especially after introducing new or complicated information.

Tone and Delivery:

The way you say it matters. A neutral, friendly tone can make the phrase sound helpful rather than patronizing. Ensure your body language and facial expressions match your intent to assist and engage.

In summary, “Does that make sense?” is generally professional when used appropriately and in the right context. Adjust your phrasing based on your audience and situation to maintain clarity and professionalism.

List of Professional Ways to Say “Does That Make Sense”

• Did I explain that clearly?
• Can you see the connection?
• Am I being coherent?
• Did I articulate that well?
• Is the concept coming across?
• Is the message getting through?
• Am I conveying the idea effectively?
• Are we on the same wavelength?
• Is the point registering?
• Have I clarified things?
• Does that resonate with you?
• Is the meaning apparent?
• Have I made myself clear?
• Do you grasp the significance?
• Is the information sinking in?
• Does that shed light on the topic?
• Is the intent transparent?
• Have I illuminated the issue?
• Is the context understandable?
• Are you following my line of thought?
• Are the implications evident?
• Have I unraveled the complexity?
• Is the essence comprehensible?
• Is the rationale evident?
• Have I decoded the message?
• Is the logic apparent?
• Is the inference clear?
• Have I simplified the concept?
• Is the significance discernible?
• Is the purpose evident?
• Have I demystified the topic?
• Is the relevance apparent?
• Is the point of contention clear?
• Have I bridged the understanding gap?
• Is the meaning discernable?

Did I explain that clearly?

When you ask someone, “Did I explain that clearly?” you are seeking confirmation that your explanation was understandable and easy to follow. This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal settings to ensure effective communication.

Example Sentences:

1. After detailing the project plan, Sarah asked the team, “Did I explain that clearly?”
2. The teacher paused after the math lesson and asked, “Did I explain that clearly?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve outlined the steps for our new project approach. Did I explain that clearly? Please let me know if anything needs further clarification.

Best, David

Can you see the connection?

“Can you see the connection?” is often used to help someone understand how different ideas or pieces of information relate to each other. This idiom is particularly useful in discussions that involve complex relationships or cause-and-effect scenarios.

Example Sentences:

1. The lecturer drew a diagram on the board and asked, “Can you see the connection between these two theories?”
2. After explaining the company’s history, the CEO asked, “Can you see the connection to our current strategy?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve attached a chart linking our past performance to the new marketing strategies. Can you see the connection? Let’s discuss this further in our next meeting.

Best, David

Am I being coherent?

“Am I being coherent?” is a straightforward way to ask if your thoughts and ideas are coming across logically and understandably. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal settings and emphasizes the clarity of your reasoning.

Example Sentences:

1. During the presentation, John stopped and asked, “Am I being coherent?”
2. The novelist asked her editor, “Am I being coherent in this chapter?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve laid out the new guidelines in the document attached. Am I being coherent in my instructions? Your feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks, David

Did I articulate that well?

Using “Did I articulate that well?” shows a concern for how clearly and effectively you’ve expressed your thoughts. This phrase is often used in professional settings where precise communication is crucial.

Example Sentences:

1. After explaining the policy changes, the manager asked, “Did I articulate that well?”
2. The coach asked his players, “Did I articulate that well during the strategy session?”

Email Example: Hello Team,

I’ve described the new workflow in the email below. Did I articulate that well? Let me know if anything is unclear.

Regards, David

What Are The Collective Nouns For “Worms”

Is the concept coming across?

When you ask, “Is the concept coming across?” you’re checking if the fundamental idea or principle you’re trying to convey is understood. This phrase is useful in educational and professional environments where new concepts are introduced.

Example Sentences:

1. The professor asked, “Is the concept coming across in my lecture?”
2. During the brainstorming session, Maria asked, “Is the concept coming across to everyone?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve presented the concept of our new initiative. Is the concept coming across clearly? We can discuss any questions in our next meeting.

Best, David

Is the message getting through?

“Is the message getting through?” is a direct way to ensure that your communication is effective and that your audience is receiving and understanding your message. It’s often used when there might be barriers to understanding.

Example Sentences:

1. After the safety briefing, the supervisor asked, “Is the message getting through to everyone?”
2. The politician asked during the debate, “Is the message getting through about our new policy?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve emphasized the importance of meeting our deadlines in my previous emails. Is the message getting through? Please confirm that everyone is on the same page.

Thanks, David

Am I conveying the idea effectively?

This phrase, “Am I conveying the idea effectively?” is used to assess whether the way you’re presenting an idea is clear and impactful. It’s suitable for formal contexts where precise communication is necessary.

Example Sentences:

1. During the seminar, the speaker asked, “Am I conveying the idea effectively?”
2. The marketing director asked her team, “Am I conveying the idea effectively in this campaign proposal?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve detailed our new marketing approach below. Am I conveying the idea effectively? Your insights will be valuable.

Best, David

Are we on the same wavelength?

“Are we on the same wavelength?” is a more informal and idiomatic way to ask if you and the other person are thinking similarly or understanding each other well. It’s often used in collaborative or casual discussions.

Example Sentences:

1. During the brainstorming session, Alex asked, “Are we on the same wavelength about this project?”
2. The friends were planning a trip, and one asked, “Are we on the same wavelength about the destination?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve shared my thoughts on the project timeline. Are we on the same wavelength? Let’s align our ideas before the next meeting.

Cheers, David

Is the point registering?

“Is the point registering?” is used to check if the key idea or argument is being understood. This idiom is often used in teaching, coaching, or persuasive contexts.

Example Sentences:

1. The coach asked his players, “Is the point registering about our new tactics?”
2. During the workshop, the facilitator asked, “Is the point registering with everyone?”

Email Example: Hello Team,

I’ve outlined the critical points for our new process. Is the point registering? Feel free to ask any questions.

Regards, David

Have I clarified things?

When you ask “Have I clarified things?” you want to ensure that you’ve resolved any confusion and made the information more understandable. This phrase is useful in both professional and casual conversations.

Example Sentences:

1. After the detailed explanation, the doctor asked, “Have I clarified things about your treatment?”
2. The project manager asked during the meeting, “Have I clarified things regarding the project scope?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve gone through the details of our new project guidelines. Have I clarified things sufficiently? Let me know if there are any remaining questions.

Best, David

Does that resonate with you?

“Does that resonate with you?” is a way to check if the information or idea strikes a chord with the listener, often on an emotional or personal level. This idiom is suitable for both formal and informal discussions.

Example Sentences:

1. After presenting his vision, the leader asked, “Does that resonate with you?”
2. The therapist asked her client, “Does that resonate with you?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve shared my vision for our new project. Does that resonate with you? Your feedback is important to me.

Best, David

Is the meaning apparent?

When you ask, “Is the meaning apparent?” you’re inquiring if the intended message or idea is clear and easily understood. This phrase is suitable for various contexts, including educational and professional settings.

Example Sentences:

1. The teacher asked, “Is the meaning apparent from the poem?”
2. After explaining the graph, the analyst asked, “Is the meaning apparent to everyone?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve highlighted the key data points in the attached report. Is the meaning apparent? Let’s discuss any unclear areas in our meeting.

Best, David

Have I made myself clear?

“Have I made myself clear?” is a direct and often firm way to ensure that your message has been understood without ambiguity. It is frequently used in professional and authoritative contexts.

Example Sentences:

1. The manager emphasized, “We need to meet our deadlines. Have I made myself clear?”
2. The parent said to their child, “You must finish your homework before playing. Have I made myself clear?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve outlined our objectives and deadlines in the attached document. Have I made myself clear? Please acknowledge receipt and understanding.

Thanks, David

Do you grasp the significance?

“Do you grasp the significance?” is used to check if someone understands the importance or deeper meaning of something. This phrase is often used in educational, professional, or formal contexts.

Example Sentences:

1. The professor asked, “Do you grasp the significance of this historical event?”
2. The mentor asked her mentee, “Do you grasp the significance of this career decision?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve explained the impact of our new strategy in the attached memo. Do you grasp the significance? Let’s ensure we’re all aligned moving forward.

Best, David

Is the information sinking in?

“Is the information sinking in?” is an informal way to check if someone is gradually understanding and retaining the information. This idiom is often used in educational and coaching contexts.

Example Sentences:

1. The trainer asked his students, “Is the information sinking in after these sessions?”
2. The parent asked their child, “Is the information sinking in about your chores?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve gone over the new procedures several times. Is the information sinking in? Let me know if anyone needs further clarification.

Best, David

Does that shed light on the topic?

“Does that shed light on the topic?” is a way to ask if additional information has helped clarify something. This idiom is suitable for both formal and informal contexts where further explanation is provided.

Example Sentences:

1. After explaining the concept, the lecturer asked, “Does that shed light on the topic?”
2. The author explained a character’s background and asked, “Does that shed light on the plot?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve provided more details in the document attached. Does that shed light on the topic? Please review and let me know your thoughts.

Best, David

Is the intent transparent?

“Is the intent transparent?” asks if the purpose or intention behind something is clear and understandable. This phrase is useful in professional and formal communications.

Example Sentences:

1. The CEO asked, “Is the intent transparent in our new policy?”
2. The project manager queried, “Is the intent transparent in our project goals?”

Email Example: Hello Team,

I’ve outlined our strategic objectives in the attached presentation. Is the intent transparent? Your feedback is crucial.

Thanks, David

Have I illuminated the issue?

“Have I illuminated the issue?” is a way to ask if your explanation has made a complex issue clearer. This idiom is often used in discussions involving detailed or intricate topics.

Example Sentences:

1. The consultant asked, “Have I illuminated the issue regarding our financial strategy?”
2. The scientist explained her research and asked, “Have I illuminated the issue?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve detailed the problem and potential solutions in the report. Have I illuminated the issue adequately? Let’s discuss in our next meeting.

Best, David

Is the context understandable?

“Is the context understandable?” is used to check if the surrounding details and background information are clear. This phrase is suitable for various settings, including educational and professional environments.

Example Sentences:

1. The historian asked, “Is the context understandable for this event?”
2. The lawyer explained the case details and asked, “Is the context understandable?”

Email Example: Hello Team,

I’ve provided the necessary background information in the attached document. Is the context understandable? Let’s ensure we all have a clear picture.

Best, David

Are you following my line of thought?

“Are you following my line of thought?” checks if someone is tracking and understanding the progression of your ideas. This idiom is commonly used in both informal and formal discussions.

Example Sentences:

1. The professor asked, “Are you following my line of thought on this theory?”
2. During the strategy meeting, the manager asked, “Are you following my line of thought?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve outlined my reasoning in the email below. Are you following my line of thought? Let’s discuss any concerns during our call.

Cheers, David

Are the implications evident?

“Are the implications evident?” asks if the consequences or broader effects of something are clear. This phrase is suitable for professional and academic contexts where understanding consequences is important.

Example Sentences:

1. The policy advisor asked, “Are the implications evident of this new legislation?”
2. The business analyst asked, “Are the implications evident in our market analysis?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve analyzed the potential outcomes in the attached report. Are the implications evident? Please review and we’ll discuss further.

Best, David

Have I unraveled the complexity?

“Have I unraveled the complexity?” is a way to ask if you’ve successfully explained something intricate or complicated. This idiom is often used in technical, scientific, or detailed professional discussions.

Example Sentences:

1. The engineer asked, “Have I unraveled the complexity of this design?”
2. The data scientist explained the model and asked, “Have I unraveled the complexity?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve broken down the complex parts of the new system in the document. Have I unraveled the complexity sufficiently? Let’s go over any questions.

Best, David

Is the essence comprehensible?

“Is the essence comprehensible?” asks if the core idea or fundamental nature of something is understood. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts where you want to ensure the main point is clear.

Example Sentences:

1. The artist asked, “Is the essence comprehensible in my artwork?”
2. The philosopher asked, “Is the essence comprehensible in this argument?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve summarized the main points in the attached notes. Is the essence comprehensible? Let’s confirm our understanding in the meeting.

Best, David

Is the rationale evident?

“Is the rationale evident?” checks if the reasoning or logic behind something is clear. This phrase is often used in professional, academic, and formal discussions where clear reasoning is critical.

Example Sentences:

1. The manager asked, “Is the rationale evident for our new strategy?”
2. The scientist asked, “Is the rationale evident in our hypothesis?”

Email Example: Hello Team,

I’ve outlined the reasoning behind our decision in the email below. Is the rationale evident? Let me know if further clarification is needed.

Thanks, David

Have I decoded the message?

“Have I decoded the message?” asks if you’ve successfully interpreted and explained a complex or cryptic piece of information. This idiom is useful in both formal and informal settings, especially when dealing with technical or abstract concepts.

Example Sentences:

1. The cryptographer asked, “Have I decoded the message correctly?”
2. The marketer asked, “Have I decoded the message from our target audience?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve interpreted the feedback from our latest survey. Have I decoded the message accurately? Let’s review it together.

Best, David

Is the logic apparent?

“Is the logic apparent?” is used to check if the reasoning or logical flow of your argument is clear and understandable. This phrase is suitable for various contexts, including professional and educational discussions.

Example Sentences:

1. The programmer asked, “Is the logic apparent in this algorithm?”
2. The lawyer asked, “Is the logic apparent in our legal argument?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve explained the logic behind our new procedure in the attached document. Is the logic apparent? Let’s discuss any concerns in our next meeting.

Best, David

Is the inference clear?

“Is the inference clear?” asks if the conclusions or deductions drawn from the information are understood. This idiom is suitable for professional, academic, and analytical contexts.

Example Sentences:

1. The researcher asked, “Is the inference clear from the data?”
2. The teacher asked, “Is the inference clear from the story?”

Email Example: Hello Team,

I’ve drawn some conclusions based on the recent data. Is the inference clear? Please review and share your thoughts.

Thanks, David

Have I simplified the concept?

“Have I simplified the concept?” checks if a complex idea has been made easier to understand. This phrase is commonly used in educational and technical discussions.

Example Sentences:

1. The tutor asked, “Have I simplified the concept of calculus for you?”
2. The engineer asked, “Have I simplified the concept behind this machine?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve tried to make the new system easier to understand. Have I simplified the concept adequately? Your feedback is welcome.

Best, David

Is the significance discernible?

“Is the significance discernible?” asks if the importance or value of something is clear. This idiom is often used in formal and professional contexts where understanding the importance is crucial.

Example Sentences:

1. The historian asked, “Is the significance discernible of this discovery?”
2. The doctor asked, “Is the significance discernible of these symptoms?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve highlighted the key points in the attached report. Is the significance discernible? Let’s ensure we understand the implications.

Best, David

Is the purpose evident?

“Is the purpose evident?” checks if the goal or aim of something is clear. This phrase is suitable for various contexts, including professional, educational, and formal discussions.

Example Sentences:

1. The teacher asked, “Is the purpose evident of this exercise?”
2. The manager asked, “Is the purpose evident of our new policy?”

Email Example: Hello Team,

I’ve outlined the objectives in the attached plan. Is the purpose evident? Let’s align our efforts accordingly.

Thanks, David

Have I demystified the topic?

“Have I demystified the topic?” asks if you have successfully explained something complex or obscure in a way that is easy to understand. This idiom is often used in educational, technical, and professional settings.

Example Sentences:

1. The professor asked, “Have I demystified the topic of quantum physics?”
2. The software developer asked, “Have I demystified the topic of coding?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve explained the intricate details of the new software update. Have I demystified the topic sufficiently? Let’s discuss any remaining questions.

Best, David

Is the relevance apparent?

“Is the relevance apparent?” checks if the importance or applicability of something is clear. This phrase is suitable for professional, academic, and formal contexts.

Example Sentences:

1. The lecturer asked, “Is the relevance apparent of this research?”
2. The consultant asked, “Is the relevance apparent of this strategy?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve detailed the relevance of our new approach in the attached memo. Is the relevance apparent? Let’s ensure everyone understands its importance.

Best, David

Is the point of contention clear?

“Is the point of contention clear?” asks if the specific issue or disagreement is understood. This idiom is useful in discussions, debates, and negotiations.

Example Sentences:

1. The mediator asked, “Is the point of contention clear to both parties?”
2. The lawyer asked, “Is the point of contention clear in this case?”

Email Example: Hi Team,

I’ve outlined the main issues in the attached document. Is the point of contention clear? Let’s address this in our next meeting.

Best, David

Have I bridged the understanding gap?

“Have I bridged the understanding gap?” asks if you have successfully connected different viewpoints or clarified misunderstandings. This idiom is suitable for educational, professional, and formal discussions.

Example Sentences:

1. The teacher asked, “Have I bridged the understanding gap on this topic?”
2. The manager asked, “Have I bridged the understanding gap between the teams?”

Email Example: Dear Team,

I’ve worked to clarify the points of confusion. Have I bridged the understanding gap? Let’s ensure we’re all aligned.

Best, David

Is the meaning discernable?

“Is the meaning discernable?” checks if the intended message or idea is clear and understandable. This phrase is suitable for various contexts, including educational and professional settings.

Example Sentences:

1. The linguist asked, “Is the meaning discernable in this ancient text?”
2. The project manager asked, “Is the meaning discernable in our project plan?”

Email Example: Hello Team,

I’ve explained the key concepts in the attached presentation. Is the meaning discernable? Let’s discuss any areas of confusion.

Thanks, David

Final Thoughts

Understanding and using idioms effectively can significantly enhance communication, making your interactions more engaging and precise.

These 35 idioms provide a variety of ways to check for understanding, ensuring that your message is conveyed clearly and effectively.

Incorporating these phrases into your everyday language can help bridge communication gaps and foster better connections with your audience.