How to Ask Questions When You Don’t Understand:Online English Guide

Asking questions is one of the most powerful tools you have when learning English. Yet, many learners hesitate because they don’t want to sound rude, interrupt the teacher, or reveal that they didn’t understand something. But the truth is this: asking questions is a sign of engagement, not weakness.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to ask questions effectively when you don’t understand something during your English class—especially online. You’ll learn polite expressions, body language cues, and communication strategies that will help you become a more confident learner.

Why It’s Important to Ask Questions

Every learner faces moments of confusion. Maybe your tutor spoke too fast, used an unfamiliar idiom, or explained grammar in a way that felt unclear. Instead of pretending to understand, asking a question helps you:

• Clarify key points immediately so you don’t build confusion later.

• Engage actively in your learning process.

• Show interest and effort, which teachers appreciate.

• Develop real-life communication skills, since asking for clarification is essential in workplaces and social settings too.

Remember: teachers expect questions. If you’re confused, chances are another student would be, too.

Overcoming the Fear of Asking

Many students feel shy or embarrassed when they don’t understand. Some fear being judged, while others worry about wasting time. Here are a few tips to overcome that fear:

1. Shift Your Mindset

Think of questions as a normal part of learning, not a sign of failure. Even native speakers ask questions all the time.

2. Prepare Useful Phrases

When you have set expressions ready, it becomes easier to speak up. For example:

• “Could you explain that again, please?”

• “I didn’t quite catch that—what does it mean?”

• “Sorry, could you say that more slowly?”

3. Start Small

You don’t have to ask long or complex questions. Short ones like “What does that mean?” or “Can you repeat that?” are perfectly fine.

4. Remember: Teachers Are There to Help

Your tutor’s job is to make sure you understand. They prefer students who ask questions instead of staying silent.

Recognizing When You Don’t Understand

Sometimes, you might not even realize you missed something. Here’s how to notice it:

• You can’t summarize what your teacher just said.

• You feel lost in the middle of a conversation.

• You can’t answer a question that should be easy.

• You keep hearing the same word but don’t know what it means.

Once you recognize confusion, pause politely and ask for help right away.

Polite Phrases to Ask for Clarification

Here are practical ways to ask questions depending on the situation.

When You Didn’t Hear Clearly

• “Sorry, could you repeat that?”

• “I didn’t hear you clearly. Could you say it again?”

• “My connection lagged—can you repeat, please?”

When You Don’t Know a Word or Phrase

• “What does ___ mean?”

• “Could you explain that word?”

• “I’m not sure I understand the expression ‘___.’ Can you explain?”

When You Don’t Understand the Explanation

• “Could you give another example?”

• “I’m still a little confused—can you explain in a different way?”

• “Can you show how that works in a sentence?”

When You Need a Slower Explanation

• “Could you go a bit slower, please?”

• “I’m trying to follow—can you explain step by step?”

• “Can we go over that one more time?”

When You Want to Confirm Your Understanding

• “So, does that mean ___?”

• “Let me check if I understand: you mean ___, right?”

• “So it’s similar to ___?”

These polite questions show that you’re trying to learn actively—not that you’re lost.

Tone and Body Language

Even in online classes, tone matters. Sounding polite and calm helps communication flow smoothly.

Tips for Speaking Tone

• Use a friendly tone, not demanding.

• Add polite expressions like please and sorry.

• Smile if you’re on video—it helps soften the conversation.

For Non-Verbal Communication

• Nod to show you’re listening.

• Raise your hand slightly (if on camera) before interrupting.

• Type a short message like “Can you explain?” in the chat if you don’t want to interrupt verbally.

How to Ask Follow-Up Questions

Good learners don’t stop at “What does it mean?”—they go deeper. Follow-up questions help you connect ideas.

Example flow:

1. “What does ‘take off’ mean?”

2. “Oh, so it means to remove something?”

3. “Can you give me another example in a sentence?”

This process reinforces memory and shows you’re actively learning.

Using Chat or Notes During Online Classes

When you’re in an online class, sometimes audio delay or connection issues can make asking questions harder. To handle this:

• Use the chat box to quickly type your question.

• Write down your doubts in your notes and ask them during review time.

• Use reactions (like raising your hand icon) to signal your teacher.

This helps keep the flow of class while still ensuring your questions are addressed.

How Teachers React to Questions

Most teachers are happy when you ask questions. It shows you’re listening and thinking critically. They might:

• Rephrase their explanation.

• Use simpler examples.

• Share tips or visuals to make it clearer.

If you ask regularly, your teacher will also start adjusting their pace and style to fit you better.

What to Avoid When Asking Questions

Asking questions is great, but be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Interrupting too often: Wait for a pause or signal politely.

• Speaking in your native language: Try to ask in English—it’s great practice.

• Saying “I don’t understand everything”: Be specific about what you didn’t understand. For example, “I don’t understand the last sentence.”

Being specific helps your teacher focus on the exact problem.

Turning Confusion into Learning

Every moment of confusion is actually a learning opportunity. Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Review your notes after class and highlight unclear areas.

2. Look up examples or definitions on trusted sources like Cambridge Dictionary.

3. Ask your teacher again next time if you’re still unsure.

4. Practice using the new word or concept in your own sentences.

Asking and then applying what you learned ensures the information sticks.

Example Dialogue

Student: “Sorry, I didn’t catch that. What does ‘break down’ mean?”
Tutor: “It means when something stops working. For example, ‘My car broke down.’”
Student: “Ah, okay! So can I say ‘My computer broke down’ too?”
Tutor: “Yes, exactly!”
Student: “Got it. Thank you!”

This kind of short interaction is perfect—clear, polite, and useful.

Practice Exercise

Try practicing these steps during your next class:

1. Choose a lesson where you’re likely to encounter new vocabulary.

2. Listen carefully and note one or two moments where you feel unsure.

3. Use one of the polite phrases above to ask your tutor.

4. After class, write the question and answer in your notebook.

Within a few weeks, asking questions will become second nature.

Summary

Learning English is not just about memorizing—it’s about interaction. The more you ask, the deeper your understanding grows. By using polite, clear, and confident language, you’ll not only improve your comprehension but also develop real-world communication skills.

So next time you don’t understand something, remember: asking questions is how you learn best.

Key Takeaways

• Don’t be afraid to ask; it shows curiosity and effort.

• Use polite phrases like “Could you explain that again, please?”

• Be specific about what you don’t understand.

• Use tone and body language to stay polite.

• Follow up with examples and self-practice.

Your willingness to ask questions is one of the best indicators of success in learning English. Keep asking, keep improving.

FAQs

What should I say first if I don’t understand?

Start with a quick, polite signal and a simple request. For example: “Sorry, I didn’t catch that. Could you repeat it, please?” or “I’m not sure I follow. Could you explain that part again?” Short, respectful phrasing reduces pressure, keeps the flow of class, and shows you’re engaged rather than lost.

How can I ask for a slower explanation without sounding rude?

Use softeners and clear intent: “Could you go a bit slower, please? I want to make sure I understand.” or “Would you mind explaining that step by step?” Phrases like could, would you mind, and please make the request courteous and collaborative.

What if I missed something because of a bad internet connection?

Briefly state the issue, then ask to repeat: “My connection lagged for a moment. Could you repeat the last sentence?” This keeps the focus on the content rather than blame, and helps your tutor quickly decide what to re-explain or recap in the chat.

How do I ask about a word or phrase I don’t know?

Be specific: “What does ___ mean in this context?” or “I’m not familiar with the expression ‘___’. Could you explain it and give one more example?” Asking for context and an extra example speeds up understanding and boosts retention.

What’s the best way to check if I understood correctly?

Use confirmation checks: “So, does that mean ___?” or “If I understand correctly, ___, right?” Paraphrasing the teacher’s point and asking for confirmation reveals gaps immediately and helps your tutor fine-tune the explanation.

How can I ask follow-up questions efficiently?

Move from meaning → form → use. Example: “I get the meaning. How is it formed?” then “When do we use it vs. ___?” This sequence keeps questions focused, prevents repetition, and turns one clarification into deeper, transferable knowledge.

What should I avoid when asking questions?

Avoid being too general (“I don’t understand anything”), interrupting mid-sentence, or switching to your native language for long explanations. Instead, specify the exact part: “I didn’t understand the second example” or “Could you clarify the difference between A and B?” Specificity saves time and reduces frustration.

How can I use the chat effectively in online classes?

Type concise prompts: “Repeat last line?” “Define ‘___’, please.” “Example with past tense?” If your teacher is speaking, the chat lets you capture the need without derailing the lesson. Teachers can circle back during a natural pause and address queued questions in order.

What phrases help when I need step-by-step guidance?

Ask for scaffolding: “Could we break that into steps?” “Can you show a simple example first, then a harder one?” “Can we compare a correct and incorrect sentence?” These requests invite structured teaching that reduces cognitive load and builds confidence.

How do I keep my questions polite and confident?

Combine a positive tone with learner intent: “I want to make sure I understand this well. Could you explain it a different way?” Polite markers (please, could, would) and an appreciative close (“Thanks for clarifying!”) create a cooperative atmosphere.

What if I’m shy about speaking up?

Prepare two or three “go-to” lines and keep them visible: “Sorry, could you repeat that?” “What does ___ mean?” “One more example, please?” Practice saying them aloud before class. If speaking feels hard, post them in the chat—then read them once your teacher pauses.

How can I remember answers after I ask?

Capture a three-part note: Trigger (what confused you), Answer (teacher’s explanation and examples), and Try (your own sentence). For example: “Trigger: ‘break down’ in tech context. Answer: ‘stop working.’ Try: ‘My app broke down during the update.’” This reinforces memory quickly.

Is it okay to ask the same question again later?

Yes—review and repetition are normal. Say: “I’m still a bit unsure about ___. Could you give one more example?” If possible, add what you already think you know: “I think it means X in formal writing—does it change in conversation?” This shows progress and pinpoints the gap.

How can I keep questions from taking over the lesson?

Batch low-priority questions. Mark “urgent” vs. “later” in your notes or chat: “Urgent: meaning of ‘whereas’ in this sentence.” “Later: extra practice examples.” This helps your tutor address essential blockers now and schedule deeper practice or homework afterward.

What should I do if the explanation still doesn’t click?

Ask for a new angle: “Could you draw it, use a timeline, or compare with ___?” or “Can we role-play a short dialogue using it?” Switching modality—visuals, contrasts, or micro role-plays—often unlocks understanding when verbal explanation alone isn’t enough.

How do I ask without interrupting the flow?

Use timing and signals. Raise your hand icon, or type “Q: short clarification” in chat, then wait for a pause. Agree with your teacher on a routine (e.g., checkpoints every 5–10 minutes) so your questions slot naturally into the lesson structure.

What if I feel embarrassed about not understanding?

Reframe it as progress data: questions reveal exactly where to grow. Tell yourself: “This question saves me weeks of confusion.” Most tutors value clarity over speed; your questions help them personalize pacing, examples, and homework for faster, lasting results.

How can I ask for examples that match my goals?

Tie requests to your context: “Could you show an example for business email?” “What about casual conversation?” Context-specific examples make the concept stick and transfer smoothly to real life, improving both accuracy and confidence outside the classroom.

What’s a good routine for post-class clarification?

Right after class, list three items: (1) what clicked, (2) what is still fuzzy, (3) one action (write three sentences, record a 60-second summary, or teach a friend). Bring unresolved items to the next lesson and ask targeted, follow-up questions to close the loop.

Online English Learning Guide: Master English Anytime, Anywhere