Aim Quote by Quintilian
“One should aim not at being possible to understand, but at being impossible to misunderstand.”
About This Quote
Strive for clarity that cannot be misinterpreted, rather than merely being understandable.
In simple terms: Be unmistakably clear.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize precise communication.
Themes
communication
clarity
precision
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- writing
- public speaking
Key Concepts
rhetoric
language theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance clarity with brevity?
- When does ambiguity serve a purpose?
A Different Perspective
Over‑clarity may seem pedantic.
![“He [an earnest young reporter] seemed to share the view of many intelligent, well-educated, well-meaning people that, while adult literature may aim to be art, the object of children's books is to whip the little rascals into shape.” quote by Katherine Paterson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2cf/katherine-paterson-2365_adults_he-an-earnest-young-reporter-seemed-to-s_6101.jpg)
![“I really enjoyed it - being involved in watching rushes and playback [in "The Invisible Woman"]. Ralph [Fiennes] was very open to my input, I think knowing that he couldn't always be there 100 percent, that he had dual aims with directing and acting.” quote by Felicity Jones](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/56e/felicity-jones-2070_acting_i-really-enjoyed-it-being-involved-in-wa_11933.jpg)
