Language is a very narrow pipe. Depending on the mindset of our listener, what we say can come across a little or a lot differently than we intend. We cannot rely solely on words to communicate clearly, completely.
The most important thing we can do to improve the chances that we communicate well is to regularly build a solid foundation of trust with everyone who matters. Where there is trust, there is more leeway, less defensiveness, and a greater likelihood that we will be on the same page as we communicate.
We can also listen more and flex to their style (that is, their preferred way of working with people, tasks, and information) by matching pace, tone, and body language. And we can confirm mutual understanding, go for win-win, and follow up with written confirmations of agreements.
In your corner,
Mike