I think it's very important for the American president to mean what he says. That's why I understand that the enemy could misread what I say. That's why I try to be as clearly as I can.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Presidents should speak clearly to avoid being misunderstood by adversaries.
- In plain terms
- Leaders must be clear so enemies do not misread their words.
- What can you take from it?
- Clear communication prevents dangerous misunderstandings in politics.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you ensure your message is clear?
- What happens when clarity is impossible?
Another view
Clear speech may still be misinterpreted due to cultural or political bias.
More from George W. Bush
In this different kind of war, we may never sit down at a peace table. But make no mistake about it, we are winning, and we will win.
Permalink to quote #153 Well, actually, he forgot Poland.
Permalink to quote #155 I don't think you can win it. But I think you can create conditions so that those who use terror as a tool are less acceptable in parts of the world.
Permalink to quote #152
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