“I used to tell my husband that, if he could make me ‘understand’ something, it would be clear to all the other people in the country.”
- October 11, 1884 – November 7, 1962
- American
- First Lady of the United States, Diplomat, Human Rights Advocate, Chair of the UN Human Rights Commission
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Quote
“I used to tell my husband that, if he could make me ‘understand’ something, it would be clear to all the other people in the country.”
Explanation
In this quote, Eleanor Roosevelt uses humility and humor to make a larger point about communication and public understanding. She suggests that if her husband—President Franklin D. Roosevelt—could explain a policy or idea clearly enough for her to grasp it, then it would likely resonate with the broader American public as well. The underlying message is that clarity in leadership depends not on complexity, but on the ability to communicate accessibly and honestly.
Eleanor Roosevelt was far from unintelligent—in fact, she was one of the most influential thinkers and advocates of her time. What she’s doing here is illustrating a key principle of effective leadership: if an idea cannot be conveyed in plain terms, it risks alienating or confusing the people it’s meant to serve. Her comment speaks to the importance of empathy in governance—understanding how ordinary citizens perceive policies is essential to democratic success.
Today, in a world of complex language, specialized jargon, and widespread misinformation, Roosevelt’s quote remains vital. Good communication is not about sounding smart—it’s about making ideas understood and actionable. Her insight reminds us that a leader’s strength lies not only in vision, but in the ability to make that vision meaningful to everyone.
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