35 Other Ways to Say “Doesn’t Make Sense” (With Examples)

This article explores 35 other ways to say “Doesn’t Make Sense” to express the same idea, while keeping your tone empathetic, professional, or conversational, depending on the situation. When I communicate with real intention, people don’t just hear my words; they feel the meaning behind them. By choosing softer expressions, you don’t water down honesty-you actually build trust, invite dialogue, and make sure the listener walks away with clarity instead of defensiveness.

What Does “Doesn’t Make Sense” Mean?

At its core, “doesn’t make sense” means that something is unclear, confusing, or illogical. It’s used when words, actions, or explanations don’t add up or fail to align with expectations. For example:

• “That story doesn’t make sense to me.”
• “The directions don’t make sense.”

It isn’t inherently rude, but tone and context can make it sound dismissive or judgmental.

When to Use “Doesn’t Make Sense”

You can use this phrase when:

• Clarifying a misunderstanding.
• Pointing out inconsistencies.
• Asking for more details.
• Identifying something illogical in a discussion or plan.

It’s best avoided in sensitive conversations, where a gentler or more diplomatic phrase might be better received.

Is It Professional or Polite to Say “Doesn’t Make Sense”?

• In casual conversations, it’s generally fine to use.
• In the workplace or formal settings, it can come across as abrupt or critical.
• A more polite alternative-like “I’m not sure I fully understand,”-helps you maintain professionalism while still seeking clarity.

Pros and Cons of Saying “Doesn’t Make Sense”

Pros:

• Clear and straightforward.
• Easy for anyone to understand.
• Communicates confusion directly.

Cons:

• It can sound blunt or dismissive.
• May unintentionally hurt someone’s feelings.
• Not always suitable in professional or sensitive conversations.

Doesn’t Make Sense Synonyms:

• I’m Not Sure I Follow
• Could You Clarify That?
• That’s a Little Confusing
• I Might Be Missing Something
• That Doesn’t Quite Add Up
• I Don’t Quite Understand
• I’m Having Trouble Making Sense of That
• That Seems Unclear
• I’m Not Connecting the Dots
• That’s Hard to Wrap My Head Around
• I Don’t See How That Fits
• That’s a Bit Vague
• I’m Struggling to Understand
• That Seems Off
• I Can’t Quite Grasp That
• That Seems Contradictory
• I Don’t See the Logic
• That’s Not Very Clear
• I’m a Bit Lost
• That Doesn’t Sound Right
• I’m Having Trouble Following
• That’s Not Adding Up for Me
• I’m Not Sure That Lines Up
• That’s a Little Puzzling
• I Don’t Get It
• That’s Tricky to Understand
• I’m Not Clear on That
• That’s Confusing Me a Bit
• I Can’t See the Connection
• That Seems Unlikely
• I’m Having a Hard Time Believing That
• That Doesn’t Add Together
• I Don’t Quite See It
• That’s Hard to Follow
• That Doesn’t Sound Logical

I’m Not Sure I Follow

Meaning:
A softer way of saying that you didn’t fully understand what someone meant.

Explanation:
Instead of labeling the other person’s idea as illogical, this phrase puts the focus on your understanding, making it less confrontational.

Example:
“I’m not sure I follow. Could you walk me through that again?”

Best Use:
In conversations where you want to encourage someone to explain further without making them feel criticized.

Worst Use:
When something is factually wrong or this phrase may sound too gentle.

Tone:
Warm, curious, and respectful.

Could You Clarify That?

Meaning:
A polite way of asking someone to make their explanation clearer.

Explanation:
This shifts the focus to seeking clarity instead of pointing out confusion. It’s widely used in professional and academic settings.

Example:
“That’s interesting, but could you clarify that part about the budget numbers?”

Best Use:
Workplace meetings, discussions with clients, or emails where diplomacy is key.

Worst Use:
Informal chats with close friends can sound too formal.

Tone:
Professional, respectful, and neutral.

That’s a Little Confusing

Meaning:
A gentler way of pointing out that something isn’t easy to understand.

Explanation:
Instead of directly saying “it doesn’t make sense”, this acknowledges that the information itself is unclear without blaming the speaker.

Example:
“That’s a little confusing-do you mean the event is on Tuesday or Wednesday?”

Best Use:
When you want to flag ambiguity in a friendly, casual way.

Worst Use:
Formal documents or situations requiring precision.

Tone:
Casual, empathetic, and nonjudgmental.

I Might Be Missing Something

Meaning:
A humble phrase that suggests the problem might be with your understanding, not with the other person’s explanation.

Explanation:
This is an excellent diplomatic tool-instead of suggesting the other person’s point is flawed, you leave space for them to clarify.

Example:
“I might be missing something-could you explain how this connects to the last step?”

Best Use:
Professional meetings, teamwork discussions, or when seeking collaboration.

Worst Use:
When someone is clearly wrong-you may come off as overly soft.

Tone:
Humble, polite, and open-minded.

That Doesn’t Quite Add Up

Meaning:
A slightly more direct way of saying that something seems inconsistent or illogical.

Explanation:
Unlike “I’m not sure I follow”, this focuses more on the logic of the statement rather than your understanding.

Example:
“That doesn’t quite add up-the report says 15%, but the chart shows 20%.”

Best Use:
When discussing numbers, facts, or logical consistency.

Worst Use:
Sensitive conversations may sound accusatory if not softened with tone.

Tone:
Direct but professional.

I Don’t Quite Understand

Meaning:
A softer way of saying that something isn’t clear without suggesting it’s wrong.

Explanation:
This phrase puts the responsibility on your level of understanding rather than the other person’s ability to explain. It shows curiosity and humility.

Example:
“I don’t quite understand-could you explain what you mean by that?”

Best Use:
When you want to encourage more explanation without tension.

Worst Use:
When someone has made a factual mistake-you may need a stronger phrase.

Tone:
Warm, approachable, and inviting.

I’m Having Trouble Making Sense of That

Meaning:
Directly states that you’re struggling to see the logic or connection.

Explanation:
This is similar to “doesn’t make sense” but framed as a personal challenge instead of a judgment.

Example:
“I’m having trouble making sense of that timeline. Could you go over it again?”

Best Use:
Team meetings, academic discussions, or problem-solving situations.

Worst Use:
Informal, light-hearted conversations where it may sound too heavy.

Tone:
Honest, thoughtful, and straightforward.

That Seems Unclear

Meaning:
Notes that something isn’t expressed clearly enough.

Explanation:
Instead of criticizing logic, it draws attention to the lack of clarity in the explanation.

Example:
“That seems unclear-are we meeting at 9 or 10?”

Best Use:
Conversations where precision is important (e.g., schedules, instructions).

Worst Use:
Casual jokes or storytelling can feel overly critical.

Tone:
Neutral, respectful, and professional.

I’m Not Connecting the Dots

Meaning:
Suggests you don’t see how the pieces fit together.

Explanation:
This phrase makes it sound like you’re seeking the bigger picture, not dismissing what’s been said.

Example:
“I’m not connecting the dots-how does this project tie into the marketing plan?”

Best Use:
Strategic discussions where connections aren’t obvious.

Worst Use:
In quick casual chats-it may sound too formal.

Tone:
Curious, collaborative, and thoughtful.

That’s Hard to Wrap My Head Around

Meaning:
Expresses that the idea is difficult to grasp.

Explanation:
This keeps the focus on your personal struggle rather than on the flaw in the other person’s point.

Example:
“That’s hard to wrap my head around-are you saying we’ll need to finish in just two weeks?”

Best Use:
When reacting to surprising or complex ideas.

Worst Use:
Formal settings can sound too casual.

Tone:
Casual, relatable, and conversational.

I Don’t See How That Fits

Meaning:
Points out that something doesn’t logically align with the rest.

Explanation:
This is useful when you want to focus on the inconsistency rather than dismiss the whole idea.

Example:
“I don’t see how that fits with the data we have.”

Best Use:
Analytical discussions, debates, or project planning.

Worst Use:
Emotional conversations-it may sound cold.

Tone:
Rational, analytical, and straightforward.

That’s a Bit Vague

Meaning:
A gentle way to say the explanation lacks detail.

Explanation:
This doesn’t attack the idea itself but invites the speaker to add more clarity.

Example:
“That’s a bit vague-can you give a more specific example?”

Best Use:
When you want more detail in explanations or plans.

Worst Use:
Sensitive talks can feel critical if not said warmly.

Tone:
Neutral, constructive, and practical.

I’m Struggling to Understand

Meaning:
Expresses personal difficulty in grasping what’s being said.

Explanation:
This phrase emphasizes your effort to understand rather than blaming the other person.

Example:
“I’m struggling to understand how this approach will reduce costs.”

Best Use:
When you genuinely want clarity without sounding dismissive.

Worst Use:
When pointing out a factual error-it can sound like you’re unsure instead of identifying the problem.

Tone:
Humble, soft, and empathetic.

That Seems Off

Meaning:
Suggests that something feels inaccurate or doesn’t align.

Explanation:
This is a more casual and direct way to express doubt or concern.

Example:
“That seems off. Didn’t we already submit this form last week?”

Best Use:
Informal conversations, spotting small errors.

Worst Use:
Professional meetings-it can sound blunt or careless.

Tone:
Casual, straightforward, and slightly critical.

I Can’t Quite Grasp That

Meaning:
Suggests difficulty in fully understanding or visualizing the point.

Explanation:
This sounds softer than “doesn’t make sense” and implies you’re open to hearing more explanation.

Example:
“I can’t quite grasp that-how exactly will this benefit the client?”

Best Use:
Learning, coaching, or collaborative discussions.

Worst Use:
When identifying factual contradictions sounds too tentative.

Tone:
Gentle, thoughtful, and respectful.

That Seems Contradictory

Meaning:
Highlights that something conflicts with previous information.

Explanation:
This is best used when pointing out inconsistencies without being harsh.

Example:
“That seems contradictory-you mentioned earlier that the deadline was next Friday.”

Best Use:
Professional debates, academic discussions, or logical analysis.

Worst Use:
Informal chats-it can sound too serious.

Tone:
Analytical, neutral, and professional.

I Don’t See the Logic

Meaning:
Points out the lack of reasoning behind an idea.

Explanation:
This is a more direct way of saying something doesn’t make sense, but framed around logic rather than personal confusion.

Example:
“I don’t see the logic in cutting staff while trying to expand services.”

Best Use:
Critical discussions where reasoning matters.

Worst Use:
Sensitive conversations-it can feel harsh.

Tone:
Direct, rational, and assertive.

That’s Not Very Clear

Meaning:
States politely that the explanation lacks clarity.

Explanation:
A gentler phrase than “doesn’t make sense,” it encourages the other person to explain more.

Example:
“That’s not very clear-are we meant to submit this individually or as a group?”

Best Use:
Emails, meetings, and collaborative work.

Worst Use:
Informal chats can sound too formal.

Tone:
Polite, professional, and approachable.

I’m a Bit Lost

Meaning:
A lighthearted way to admit confusion.

Explanation:
This phrase softens the admission of not understanding, making it sound friendly and approachable.

Example:
“I’m a bit lost-are we talking about the new policy or the old one?”

Best Use:
Informal conversations, team discussions, and classrooms.

Worst Use:
Highly formal situations-it may sound too casual.

Tone:
Friendly, open, and non-threatening.

That Doesn’t Sound Right

Meaning:
Suggests something is inaccurate.

Explanation:
This is more direct than others-it signals doubt about the correctness of the statement.

Example:
“That doesn’t sound right-I thought the meeting was tomorrow, not today.”

Best Use:
Quick corrections, informal settings.

Worst Use:
Sensitive talks-it may come across as dismissive.

Tone:
Straightforward, corrective, and casual.

I’m Having Trouble Following

Meaning:
A softer way of saying that the explanation is difficult to keep up with.

Explanation:
This phrase signals that the pace, detail, or structure is overwhelming or unclear, without criticizing the speaker.

Example:
“I’m having trouble following-could you slow down a bit and explain the last part again?”

Best Use:
In classrooms, meetings, or situations where you need more explanation.

Worst Use:
Casual conversations-it may sound too formal.

Tone:
Respectful, humble, and attentive.

That’s Not Adding Up for Me

Meaning:
A casual way of pointing out that something seems inconsistent.

Explanation:
Similar to “that doesn’t quite add up”, but with a slightly more personal touch-you’re placing the focus on how you perceive the situation.

Example:
“That’s not adding up for me-the expenses listed don’t match the receipts.”

Best Use:
Informal problem-solving, casual workplace discussions.

Worst Use:
Highly formal writing or presentations.

Tone:
Casual, honest, and straightforward.

I’m Not Sure That Lines Up

Meaning:
Suggests that the idea doesn’t match or align with something else.

Explanation:
It’s a diplomatic way of highlighting a possible inconsistency without being too blunt.

Example:
“I’m not sure that lines up with the policy we agreed on.”

Best Use:
Strategic discussions, workplace conversations, or collaborative settings.

Worst Use:
Lighthearted chats-it may sound overly formal.

Tone:
Neutral, diplomatic, and constructive.

That’s a Little Puzzling

Meaning:
Expresses confusion in a gentle, curious way.

Explanation:
Instead of rejecting the idea, you frame it as a “puzzle” that you want to figure out, making it sound more engaging than critical.

Example:
“That’s a little puzzling-why would they delay the launch after the ad campaign?”

Best Use:
Friendly or collaborative conversations.

Worst Use:
High-stakes business meetings may sound too casual.

Tone:
Curious, soft, and conversational.

I Don’t Get It

Meaning:
A blunt and casual way of admitting confusion.

Explanation:
While simple, this phrase can sometimes sound too abrupt, depending on tone. It works well in close or informal conversations.

Example:
“I don’t get it-why would they cancel after confirming?”

Best Use:
Among friends, family, or in informal chats.

Worst Use:
Professional or academic settings-it can sound unpolished.

Tone:
Casual, straightforward, and informal.

That’s Tricky to Understand

Meaning:
A polite way to acknowledge the difficulty in grasping something.

Explanation:
This shows that the complexity lies in the subject itself, not in the way it’s explained, which prevents sounding judgmental.

Example:
“That’s tricky to understand-can you simplify it a little?”

Best Use:
Professional, academic, or coaching contexts.

Worst Use:
Casual settings-it may sound overly formal.

Tone:
Respectful, thoughtful, and professional.

I’m Not Clear on That

Meaning:
A professional phrase for pointing out a lack of clarity.

Explanation:
This is common in workplace and academic settings, where precision matters, and it doesn’t sound offensive.

Example:
“I’m not clear on that-does the approval come before or after the report?”

Best Use:
Meetings, emails, and group discussions.

Worst Use:
Casual talks-it may sound stiff.

Tone:
Polite, professional, and precise.

That’s Confusing Me a Bit

Meaning:
Expresses mild confusion without being overly critical.

Explanation:
By saying it’s confusing you personally, you avoid making the statement sound like an attack on the speaker’s clarity.

Example:
“That’s confusing me a bit-are we supposed to contact HR or our manager directly?”

Best Use:
Informal or semi-formal discussions.

Worst Use:
Highly professional writing-it may sound too casual.

Tone:
Friendly, honest, and nonjudgmental.

I Can’t See the Connection

Meaning:
Suggests that the link between ideas isn’t clear.

Explanation:
This phrase is best when you want to highlight gaps in reasoning or explanation.

Example:
“I can’t see the connection between the higher cost and increased efficiency.”

Best Use:
Analytical or logical discussions.

Worst Use:
Casual chats-it can sound overly formal.

Tone:
Rational, curious, and professional.

That Seems Unlikely

Meaning:
Indicates doubt about the plausibility of what’s being said.

Explanation:
This is useful when addressing something that doesn’t feel realistic or believable, without saying outright that it’s wrong.

Example:
“That seems unlikely-are you sure those numbers are correct?”

Best Use:
Professional settings where you need to question the feasibility.

Worst Use:
Emotional conversations-it may sound dismissive.

Tone:
Cautious, logical, and professional.

I’m Having a Hard Time Believing That

Meaning:
Politely expresses disbelief or doubt.

Explanation:
This acknowledges the speaker’s point but shows you’re struggling to accept it as true.

Example:
“I’m having a hard time believing that they approved this without discussion.”

Best Use:
Conversations where honesty and doubt need to be expressed carefully.

Worst Use:
Light, humorous conversations-it may sound too serious.

Tone:
Honest, careful, and measured.

That Doesn’t Add Together

Meaning:
A variant of “doesn’t add up,” focusing on inconsistencies.

Explanation:
It’s best when pointing out logical or numerical contradictions.

Example:
“That doesn’t add the total is different from the individual amounts.”

Best Use:
Financial or analytical discussions.

Worst Use:
Informal conversations-it may sound awkward.

Tone:
Direct, precise, and logical.

I Don’t Quite See It

Meaning:
Suggests you don’t fully understand or visualize the point.

Explanation:
This phrase is gentle and invites further explanation rather than rejecting the idea outright.

Example:
“I don’t quite see it-can you explain how this solution saves time?”

Best Use:
Collaborative conversations where you want clarification.

Worst Use:
When you need to correct someone directly.

Tone:
Gentle, inquisitive, and respectful.

That’s Hard to Follow

Meaning:
Suggests that the structure or explanation is difficult to track.

Explanation:
This puts the difficulty on the delivery or complexity, not the speaker’s intelligence.

Example:
“That’s hard to follow-could you break it down step by step?”

Best Use:
Long explanations, presentations, or instructions.

Worst Use:
Short casual chats-it can sound unnecessarily heavy.

Tone:
Respectful, thoughtful, and professional.

That Doesn’t Sound Logical

Meaning:
A direct way of questioning reasoning or sense-making.

Explanation:
While firm, this phrase still frames the critique around logic, not the person.

Example:
“That doesn’t sound logical-why would we expand when we can’t handle the current workload?”

Best Use:
Professional or academic discussions require logical precision.

Worst Use:
Casual conversations-it may feel too critical.

Tone:
Rational, firm, and professional.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, saying “doesn’t make sense” is quick, but it isn’t always the kindest or most effective choice. Words carry weight, and how we express confusion can either invite clarity or shut down dialogue. By exploring 35 alternatives, you’ve seen how subtle changes in phrasing can transform conversations.

The difference between “I don’t get it” and “Could you clarify that?” might seem small, but it dramatically shifts tone. One sounds abrupt, while the other communicates curiosity and respect. Similarly, in professional settings, choosing “That doesn’t quite add up” instead of “That doesn’t make sense” keeps the discussion objective and constructive.

The beauty of these alternatives is their flexibility. Some are polished and professional, perfect for meetings and emails, while others are casual and lighthearted, ideal for friends or family. The key is knowing when to use each one-context matters as much as the words themselves.

Ultimately, these alternatives help you express confusion with warmth, clarity, and empathy. Instead of creating barriers, you open doors to better understanding. Whether you’re at work, in class, or chatting with loved ones, these phrases allow you to seek clarity while also strengthening relationships. Because good communication isn’t just about being understood-it’s about making others feel valued, respected, and heard.

FAQs

Is it rude to say “doesn’t make sense”?

Not necessarily, but tone matters. In casual conversations, it’s fine. However, in professional or sensitive settings, it may sound dismissive. Using softer alternatives like “I’m not sure I follow” is usually better.

What is a more polite way to say “doesn’t make sense”?

A polite option is “Could you clarify that?”. It shifts the focus away from judgment and toward seeking understanding, which keeps communication professional, empathetic, and respectful.

Can I use “doesn’t make sense” in emails at work?

It’s best avoided in formal emails. Instead, try phrases like “That’s not very clear” or “I might be missing something”. These alternatives sound professional and help keep the tone constructive.

What’s the best casual alternative to “doesn’t make sense”?

If you’re speaking with friends or family, “I’m a bit lost” or “That’s puzzling” works well. They’re light, friendly, and keep the conversation relaxed while still signaling confusion.

How do I say “doesn’t make sense” professionally?

Professional alternatives include “That doesn’t quite add up”, “I don’t see the logic”, or “I’m not clear on that”. These choices maintain professionalism while pointing out confusion without sounding blunt.