How to say I Do Not Know Without Offending

“I do not know” doesn’t need a lot of explanation, but sometimes that little phrase has some huge consequences if said in the wrong way. Have you ever encountered this? In this post, we explore four ways to say it and the consequences of each one.

In today’s society, there are many ways to say “I do not know”. Sometimes it may seem that the less said, the better. But these four words can cause offense if spoken incorrectly. This article will break down some of the phrases that people commonly use in this situation.

How To Nicely Say “No” (With 50 Examples)

Common phrases for I do not know

You’ve been working on the financial projections for the next year and your team is still figuring out the details. You’ve just found out you have a meeting about this topic today, and you do not have time to prepare.

But have you ever said “I don’t know?”

Tip: When in doubt, avoid incomplete and repetitive phrases. I don’t know, but I’ll ask the experts and get back to you, how to cope when you don’t know something?

• Great question. Let’s look into that.
• Let’s see if we can get some more information on that.
• I don’t have the foggiest idea.
• I haven’t a clue.
• Who knows?
• Don’t ask me.
• Your guess is as good as mine

How to Say ‘I Don’t Know’ Professionally

What are the alternate ways to say “I don’t know”?

Can you please tell me more about what you need?

I don’t have any expertise in this area, but I’m willing to share my opinions.

I am not 100% on that one

Gee, I have to look that up can you give me a moment.

Oh that is not my domain, I will get back to you.

Hey, I wont be second just let me finish this document and then get right to it

Here are 3 ways to answer a question when you’re not an expert

Well that beats me (casual)

You got me stunned on that. (causal)

I will have to get back to you about that. (formal)

What to say when you do not know the answer

If you answer questions for her, she will be more impressed with your knowledge.

If you do this here, she won’t ask again

How to say “I don’t know” without sounding too uneducated

• I’m not sure I’m the best person to answer that but… 
• Here’s what I know and here’s what I don’t know… 
• Based on my understanding, I believe that…

Avoiding I do not know

Here are two ways to say “I don’t know.”

What questions do you want to know?

Is there a question in there somewhere?

Now that you know it IS okay to say ‘I don’t know’, what are the things you DON’T KNOW about

How to Say It Professionally

What to say when it’s better to help someone find the answer…

Imagine you’re training a new employee at work. If she asks questions about her job, it’s MUCH better if you help her find the answer. That way, she won’t need to ask again in the future.

In this case, it’s better to learn together.

Instead of saying ‘I don’t know’ try one of these:

• Great question. Let’s look into that.
• Let’s see if we can get some more information on that.
• yeah i can get you a hand just give me a moment.
• Ill have a look shortly.

Now it’s time to practice what you’ve learned.

This is the BEST way to add new vocabulary and expressions to your English — learn, practice, and repeat.

So here’s your chance to try some new language.

In the comment section below, tell me:

It’s always a good idea to know the answer to a question.

What should you do if your colleague asks you a question and you don’t know the answer tomorrow?\

Do you have the answer to get the questions they want, if you do know all the answer never mind. But if you want to practice and be ready for the ” I do not know” party.

Remember if you can be polite we always should. .Leave your comments

How To Cancel Plans Without Problems

Phrases for I do not know (bonus)

put a bee in (one’s) bonnet

say in a roundabout way

Your guess is as good as mine

Not as far as I know