I'm afraid I have to point out that...

Meaning

Politely highlighting a problem or discrepancy.

Examples

• John: The report looks great!
• Alice: Thanks, but <b>I'm afraid I have to point out that</b> the figures on page three are inconsistent.
• John: Oh, you're right. I must have made a mistake. Thanks for pointing that out. <b>I'm afraid I have to point out that</b> I've made a few more errors now.
• Alice: Let's review them carefully together.