Why not give it a try? It might seem initially silly, but repeating an instruction from a colleague, friend or family member back to them using the same wording could end up saving you a lot of confusion further down the line.

How many times have you promised to pick something up for someone and forgotten? Closed loop communication could provide you with a solution. Give it a go!

Another technique under the umbrella of closed loop communication that achieves the same result is confirmation. By checking with the other person that what you just heard was what you thought you heard, regardless of how sure you are, you can eliminate doubt and be certain that you are about to undertake the correct actions.

It's a complex topic but using just some of the strategies could evade conflict. It's important to make your concerns clear. The approach you take, however, could mean the situation is made worse. My understanding is that pilots highlight their concerns in the first instance by phrasing it as a question.

For example, if they see that the speed of the aircraft is exceeding a restriction, and one of the crew hasn't noticed, the other may say "I think our speed is a little high. Do you agree?". It's more respectful than saying "you're going too fast". It's the same reason that driving instructors ask you if you know what the speed limit of the road is that you're currently travelling on. They don't slam the brakes on and shout "slow down you idiot!". It is excessive and students would simply never learn from their mistake.

If this strategy hasn't worked but you know there is a problem, you can raise it up a level by saying something which highlights this. For example, "I am concerned about this. I really think we should be slowing down" is a way of still maintaining a good level of respect, but also making it very clear that you don't like what is happening.