10 ways to say I don’t understand in English

I don’t understand is a direct way to say you didn’t get something, you didn’t understand it. This phrase is useful in many situations and for everyone, regardless of your English level. It’s also useful to know other phrases you can use to say that you don’t understand something. Here are 10 ways to say I don’t understand, in English including both informal and formal expressions.

Informal Ways to Say I Don’t Understand:

1️⃣ I don’t get it!

This is a casual way to say that you are confused about a situation. Use it with friends, family, or coworkers in informal settings.

2️⃣ I can’t get my head around it!

This is another informal way to say you don’t understand, but it focuses more on the topic being too complicated.

3️⃣ This doesn’t make sense.

This expression shows that something was explained unclearly. Use it only with people you know well.

4️⃣ I’m confused.

This is a general way to say you need something explained more clearly.

Formal Ways to Say I Don’t Understand:

5️⃣ I can’t make head nor tail of what you’re saying.

This idiom means you don’t understand anything being said. Use it in formal situations.

6️⃣ I’m having trouble understanding what you mean.

This can be used in both formal and informal situations to say you don’t understand the topic or how it was explained.

7️⃣ I’m afraid I don’t follow.

This is a polite way to say you can’t follow someone’s train of thought (how someone is thinking).

8️⃣ Can you explain that again?

This is a nice and polite way to say you don’t understand and ask for another explanation.

9️⃣ What do you mean?

Use this when you need someone to clarify what they meant.

🔟 I’m at a loss here.

This expression means you’re confused and don’t know what to do.

Also, check out our article on 10 Ways to Say “I’m Excited” for more useful phrases!