When Feedback Is Honest but Still Hard to Use

“This isn’t working” may be candid, but it doesn’t tell a collaborator what to try next—or whether the feedback is about the idea, the execution, or a different goal.

When you’re reviewing an unfinished piece of shared work, what helps turn a blunt reaction into feedback the other person can actually use? For example, do you first ask what kind of response they want, point to a specific moment that isn’t landing, or name the outcome you think the work should serve?

I’m interested in the move that keeps feedback direct without quietly taking ownership of someone else’s idea. What wording or practice has helped you do that?