Which technique is used to confirm you understood a colleague's meaning in conversation?

• A. Interrogation
• B. Paraphrasing
• C. Lecturing
• D. Advising

Answer: (B)

When you want to confirm you understood a colleague's meaning in conversation, paraphrasing is the technique to use. Paraphrasing means restating what they said in your own words, focusing on the main idea and intent rather than repeating exact phrases. This shows you were listening, gives the speaker a chance to confirm or correct your interpretation, and helps prevent miscommunication.

Interrogation pushes for answers and can feel confrontational, not a check for understanding. Lecturing involves delivering your own points without ensuring the other person’s message was understood. Advising offers recommendations, which can shift the focus away from confirming meaning. Paraphrasing stays centered on accurately capturing what the speaker intended.