I wrote: However, the resolution of the photoelectron spectra at higher photon energies precludes a definitive assignment for the A(2A') ← X(1A') transition.
He wrote: {last sentence particularly lame}
What I wanted to write in response: "I don't understand. How is it lame? Is it the content? Is it that I've ended the paragraph on an uncertain note? Is it the stilted sound of passive third-person academic writing? Is this sentence hurting America? Because if it is, let me know. I don't want to hurt America."
What I actually wrote: "Could you please be more specific?"
