Not knowing something isn’t a problem. In fact, being able to express confusion politely is one of the most useful communication skills in any language.
1. The Basic Phrases Every Learner Should Know
Start with these core expressions. They’re simple, safe, and work everywhere.
| Phrase | Meaning |
| I don’t know. | Standard, neutral answer. |
| I’m not sure. | Softer, more polite. |
| I don’t understand. | You didn’t get the meaning. |
| I don’t get it. | Casual, informal version. |
| I have no idea. | Stronger version of “I don’t know.” |
Quick Tip
“I’m not sure” is extremely common in English. It sounds polite and avoids sounding too direct.
2. Polite English Ways to Say You Don’t Know
These expressions soften the message and sound professional, respectful, or more gentle.
| Polite Phrase | When to Use It |
| I’m not certain. | Formal, professional settings. |
| Let me check on that. | Workplace or customer service. |
| I’ll find out for you. | Helpful, proactive. |
| I’m not familiar with that. | When the topic is new. |
| That’s a good question. | Polite delay while thinking. |
| I’m still learning about that. | Humble and honest. |
Yak Tip
English speakers often soften uncertainty because it sounds friendlier.
3. Casual English Phrases for “I Don’t Know”
Use these with friends, classmates, or coworkers in relaxed situations.
| Phrase | Meaning / Tone |
| No idea. | Very casual. |
| Not sure, honestly. | Friendly and real. |
| Beats me. | Informal, funny. |
| Who knows? | Shrugging tone. |
| I’m clueless. | Playful self-joke. |
| I’ve got nothing. | Casual admission. |
Note
“Beats me” is very common among younger English speakers.
4. How to Say You Don’t Understand Something
These are essential for conversations, classes, online learning, and real life.
Beginner-Friendly Versions
- I don’t understand.
- I don’t get it.
- I didn’t catch that.
- What do you mean?
- Can you explain that?
Polite Versions
- Sorry, could you repeat that?
- Could you say that again, please?
- I’m not following you.
- I’m a little confused.
- I’m not sure I understand.
More Casual / Everyday Versions
- Wait, what?
- Hold on, I’m lost.
- Sorry, I missed that.
- What was that?
- I’m confused. What do you mean?
Usage Tip
“I didn’t catch that” is extremely common when you didn’t hear something clearly — especially in noisy places.
5. Ways to Ask for Clarification
When you need more details, use these questions to keep the conversation going.
| Question | Meaning |
| Could you explain that another way? | Ask for simpler wording. |
| What does that mean? | Vocabulary question. |
| How do you spell that? | Spelling help. |
| Can you show me? | Ask for a visual. |
| Could you give an example? | Ask for context. |
| What do you mean exactly? | Ask for clarity. |
6. How to Say You Didn’t Hear Someone
Sometimes the issue isn’t understanding — it’s hearing.
| Phrase | Situation |
| Sorry? | Quick and common. |
| Pardon? | Slightly more formal. |
| Come again? | Casual. |
| Could you speak more slowly? | Perfect for learners. |
| Sorry, I didn’t hear you. | Honest and clear. |
Cultural Note
In English-speaking cultures, it’s normal to say “Sorry?” instead of “Can you repeat?”
It’s not an apology — just a polite request.
7. Very Helpful Buffer Phrases (Learners Love These)
These make your message smoother, more polite, and more natural.
- I’m not sure I got that right.
- Let me make sure I understand.
- If I understood correctly…
- Sorry, could you clarify that?
- I think I misunderstood.
These help you sound thoughtful and engaged, not confused.
8. Real English Conversation Examples
A. When You Don’t Know
A: Do you know why the store is closed?
B: I’m not sure, honestly. Maybe they’re on break.
B. When You Don’t Understand
A: The meeting moved to 3 instead of 2.
B: Sorry, I didn’t catch that. What time?
C. When Someone Uses a New Word
A: It was very chaotic.
B: Sorry, what does “chaotic” mean?
D. When the Explanation Is Too Fast
A: So then you upload it, rename the file, export it—
B: Hold on, I’m a little confused. Can you explain again?
E. When You Didn’t Hear the Question
A: Do you want to join us later?
B: Sorry? Could you repeat that?
9. Which Phrase Should You Use?
Here’s a simple guide to help you choose.
| Situation | Best Phrases |
| You don’t know the answer | I’m not sure / I don’t know |
| You didn’t understand | I didn’t catch that / I’m not following |
| You need more details | Could you explain that another way? |
| You didn’t hear the person | Sorry? / I didn’t hear you |
| You want to sound polite | I’m not certain / Let me check on that |
Yak Advice
Being honest about not understanding makes your English better, not worse.
Even native speakers say “I don’t get it” at least 27 times a week.
Yak’s Final Chewables
Learning how to say I don’t know in English — and how to say you don’t understand — gives you confidence in any conversation. You don’t need perfect English; you need clarity, politeness, and a few flexible phrases. Use these expressions to communicate honestly and naturally. Even yaks ask for clarification sometimes, especially when humans talk too fast.