diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 3383b8df0a5..e5ce90dab68 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -3,8 +3,10 @@ Home Manager using Nix
 
 This project provides a basic system for managing a user environment
 using the [Nix][] package manager together with the Nix libraries
-found in [Nixpkgs][]. Before attempting to use Home Manager please
-read the warning below.
+found in [Nixpkgs][]`. It allows declarative configuration of user
+specific (non global) packages and dotfiles.
+
+Before attempting to use Home Manager please read the warning below.
 
 For a more systematic overview of Home Manager and its available
 options, please see the [Home Manager manual][manual].