What is the best description of paraphrasing?

Paraphrasing is best described as restating information to confirm understanding. This technique involves taking what someone has said and rewording it in your own terms, while still conveying the original meaning. By paraphrasing, you not only demonstrate that you are actively listening but also allow the other person to see if your interpretation aligns with their intended message. This can help to clarify any misunderstandings and ensure that communication is effective.

Using complex jargon might hinder communication rather than clarify it, as it can confuse the other party instead of confirming understanding. Taking direct quotes from a customer may not reflect your understanding of their message and can lead to miscommunication if the essence of what they are saying is lost. Summarizing the entire conversation goes beyond paraphrasing by condensing the main points into a shorter narrative instead of reflecting specific statements or phrases made by the customer. Therefore, restating information to confirm understanding directly aligns with the core purpose of paraphrasing.