“Sorry?” is useful, but repeating it three times is frustrating for both people. Say what you missed: the sound, the word, the meaning, or the decision. That gives the speaker a better way to help.
When you did not hear
- Sorry, I didn’t catch the last part.
- Could you say that once more?
- Was that fifteen or fifty?
- Could you repeat the address a little more slowly?
Pointing to the missing piece sounds confident. “I caught the time, but not the platform number” shows that you were listening and prevents the speaker from repeating everything.
When you heard the words but not the meaning
- What does ‘rollover’ mean in this context?
- Could you put that another way?
- Do you mean we should cancel it, or just delay it?
- Could you give me a quick example?
Confirm the action
Work conversations often fail after the vocabulary is understood but the responsibility is not. Try: “Just to make sure I’ve got it: I’ll update the document, and you’ll send it to the client. Is that right?”
Slow down one part, not the whole person
“Speak slowly” can feel broad. Ask for what you need now: “Could you say the postcode one digit at a time?” or “Could we go through the second step again?”
If you still do not understand
Be honest: “I’m sorry, I’m still not following. Could you show me?” Switching from speech to a map, screen, example, or written note is a communication skill, not a defeat.