to clarify
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to clarify
To explain a situation or statement unambiguously in order to eliminate misunderstandings or incorrect interpretations.
Der Politiker wollte mit seiner Rede klarstellen, dass er die Reform weiterhin unterstützt.
With his speech, the politician wanted to clarify that he still supports the reform.
'Klarstellen' (to clarify) is a separable verb. The prefix 'klar' comes at the end in main clauses. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Ich stelle das nur kurz klar.
I'll just briefly clarify that.
Very often, 'klarstellen' (to clarify) is followed by a subordinate clause with 'dass' (that) to explain the matter that is to be made clear. The pattern is: Person + stellt klar, dass ... .
Die Chefin stellte klar, dass die Gerüchte nicht stimmten.
The boss clarified that the rumors were not true.
When no 'dass' clause follows, 'klarstellen' (to clarify) often has an accusative object. Typical objects are 'ein Missverständnis' (a misunderstanding), 'einen Sachverhalt' (a matter/situation), 'seine Position' (one's position), or simply 'etwas' (something).
Er wollte mit seiner E-Mail nur ein Missverständnis klarstellen.
With his email, he only wanted to clarify a misunderstanding.
to explain / declare
Erklären and klarstellen can both make a situation understandable. Erklären gives a general explanation, while klarstellen specifically removes a possible misunderstanding. Use erklären for ordinary information and klarstellen when someone has misunderstood something or when a statement needs to be unambiguous.
Nachdem einige Schüler den Plan falsch verstanden hatten, stellte die Lehrerin klar, dass der Unterricht am Montag beginnt.
After some students had misunderstood the schedule, the teacher clarified that classes would begin on Monday.
Die Lehrerin erklärte den neuen Stundenplan mit einer kurzen Übersicht.
The teacher explained the new schedule with a brief overview.
