Meaning
A checking question used to verify whether the listener has understood an explanation or information.
Primary Function
To confirm comprehension and invite clarification from the listener.
Communicative Purpose
Ensures mutual understanding between speaker and listener; prompts further questions if needed.
Pattern
Does ; make sense
Core Structure
Does ; make sense
Função primária
To confirm comprehension and invite clarification from the listener.
Propósito comunicativo
Ensures mutual understanding between speaker and listener; prompts further questions if needed.
Situações de gatilho
After delivering detailed instructions, presenting complex ideas, or summarizing a process.
Contextos
Professional settings (meetings, training), academic environments (lectures, tutoring), everyday conversations where clarity is desired.
Padrão
Does ; make sense
Estrutura central
Does ; make sense
Slots de substituição
that → this, the previous point, the steps
Colocados típicos
- that
- make sense
Substituições comuns
- Is that clear?
- Do you follow?
- Am I making sense?
Erros comuns
Overusing can come across as condescending; use sparingly and with a friendly tone.
Similar / contraste
Do you see what I mean?, Are you with me?, Following?
Interferências
In some cultures this phrase may be perceived as doubting listener’s intelligence; soften by using a more neutral inquiry like ‘Are there any parts unclear?’
Família do chunk
- Comprehension checks: Are we clear? Do you follow? Am I being clear?
Nuance
Serves as an open invitation for feedback, fostering collaborative dialogue rather than asserting finality of understanding.
Efeito pragmático
Encourages clarification, reduces risk of miscommunication, signals speaker’s willingness to address gaps in knowledge.
Dica de memória
sense check
Nota
This chunk is commonly used in English to ensure the listener has understood the information provided. It is a polite and professional way to check for comprehension and to open the floor for questions or clarification.
Upgrade path
OK? → Does that make sense? → Are there any questions so far?
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