Asking someone to repeat in English : complete course

What Does It Mean to Ask Someone to Repeat in English?

Sometimes, you do not understand what someone says. This is completely normal, especially when you are learning a new language. Asking someone to repeat means politely requesting that the other person says something again so you can understand better. It is a simple but very important communication skill.

Simple Examples to Get Started

Here are some everyday situations where you might need to ask someone to repeat:

• You meet someone new and you do not catch their name.
• A colleague gives you instructions too quickly.
• A shop assistant tells you the price and you miss it.
• Someone speaks with a strong accent you are not used to.

In all these cases, it is perfectly fine to stop the conversation and ask for clarification. Native speakers do this too!

Key Elements of Asking Someone to Repeat in English

There are several ways to ask someone to repeat. Let us look at the main types of phrases you can use.

Short and Simple Phrases

These are quick expressions you can use in any situation. They are polite and easy to remember.

• Sorry?
• Pardon?
• Excuse me?
• What? (informal, use with friends only)

These one-word or two-word expressions are great when you need a fast response. They signal that you did not hear something clearly.

Full Polite Sentences

When you want to sound more formal or more polite, use a complete sentence. These are very useful in professional or formal situations.

• Could you repeat that, please?
• Could you say that again, please?
• I am sorry, I did not catch that.
• Would you mind repeating that?

Notice the word please at the end. It makes the request much more polite and friendly.

Asking Someone to Speak More Slowly

Sometimes the problem is not the words, but the speed. You can ask the person to slow down.

• Could you speak more slowly, please?
• Can you slow down a little, please?
• Sorry, could you say that more slowly?

This is especially helpful when the other person speaks very fast or uses many words you do not know yet.

Why Asking Someone to Repeat Is So Important

Many learners feel embarrassed when they do not understand. They stay silent and pretend they understood. This is a common mistake. Here is why you should always ask for clarification:

• You get the correct information instead of guessing.
• You show that you are engaged and listening carefully.
• You practise real communication, which helps you improve faster.
• Native speakers appreciate honesty and effort.

Remember: asking someone to repeat is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of confidence and good communication.

Comparison With Other Languages

It is helpful to see how asking for repetition works in different languages. The structure is often similar, but the words change.

You can see that all three languages have a short word for quick situations and a longer, more polite sentence for formal moments. The logic is the same in English!

A Complete Example

Here is a short dialogue that shows how to ask someone to repeat naturally in a real conversation.

Situation: You are at a hotel reception desk and you do not understand the room number.

• Receptionist: Your room is number four hundred and thirty-seven.
• You: Sorry, could you repeat that, please?
• Receptionist: Of course! It is room four hundred and thirty-seven.
• You: Thank you very much!

See how simple it is? The receptionist is happy to help. Nobody is annoyed. The conversation continues smoothly.

Here is another example with a friend:

• Friend: Let us meet at the coffee shop on Baker Street at three.
• You: Pardon? What time did you say?
• Friend: At three o’clock!
• You: Perfect, see you then!

Key Points to Remember

• It is completely normal and polite to ask someone to repeat.
• Use short expressions like Sorry? or Pardon? in quick situations.
• Use full sentences like Could you repeat that, please? in formal situations.
• If someone speaks too fast, ask them to slow down.
• Always add please to sound polite and friendly.
• Do not stay silent when you do not understand. Ask for help!

Sources

• Council of Europe. (2001). Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment. Cambridge University Press.
• Harmer, J. (2007). The Practice of English Language Teaching. Pearson Longman.
• Swan, M. (2005). Practical English Usage. Oxford University Press.