Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication; Functions of Communication & Speech Context (Vocabulary)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms from verbal/nonverbal communication and speech context topics.

Verbal communication

Communication that uses language as a symbol to convey meaning, either orally or in writing.

Verbal cues

Prompts conveyed in spoken language that signal meaning or intention.

Direct communication

Explicit, straightforward language that clearly states needs, opinions, and intentions.

Indirect communication

Messages conveyed through subtle language, nonverbal cues, and context to avoid direct confrontation.

Symbolic language

Words represent objects, ideas, or concepts without resembling them.

Rule-governed language

Each language system has its own set of rules that govern usage.

Phonological rules

Rules that dictate how sounds should be pronounced in a language.

Syntactic rules

Rules that govern the structure and arrangement of words in sentences.

Semantic rules

Rules that govern meaning in language.

Pragmatic rules

Rules that govern language use within context and social situations.

Clarity (verbal communication)

Using grammatically correct and unambiguous language to prevent confusion.

Directness

Using direct, informal language appropriate for the audience and context.

Appropriateness

Language that fits the audience, situation, purpose, and speaker.

Vividness

Using vivid descriptions to help listeners form mental images.

Nonverbal communication

Communication without language, including body language, gestures, appearance, and silence.

Kinesics

Study of body movements (hands, arms, face) used to convey ideas or emotions; interpretation varies across cultures.

Chronemics

Study of how time is used in communication; punctuality can signal interest or respect.

Haptics

Study of touch as a communicative modality; meanings vary across cultures.

Proxemics

Study of the use of personal and social space in communication.

Public distance

12 feet and above between communicators.

Social distance

4 to 12 feet between communicators.

Personal distance

About 1.5 to 4 feet between communicators.

Intimate distance

Up to 1.5 feet between communicators.

Paralanguage

Vocal aspects of speech such as tone, volume, rate, pauses, and silence that accompany verbal messages.

Language of flowers (floriography)

Floriography; the symbolic meanings assigned to flowers.

Color symbolism

Meaning assigned to colors, which can be biological, cultural, or personal.

Artifacts

Material objects (clothing, accessories) that express identity.

Physical appearance

Perceptions formed from someone's looks, clothing, grooming, and overall presentation.

Environmental factors

Surroundings (colors, lighting, furniture) that affect communication and behavior.

Silence

Nonverbal symbol with varied meanings (anger, awkwardness, contentment) depending on context.

Effective nonverbal communication

Being aware of nonverbal behavior and adjusting self-expression; recognize and respect cultural differences.

Intrapersonal communication

Communication within oneself (thinking, imagining); private to the individual.

Interpersonal communication

Communication between two or more individuals; purposeful and intentional.

Dyadic communication

Two participants (one speaker, one listener) exchanging thoughts and information.

Small group communication

3–15 people; discuss issues, solve problems, and plan outcomes; has an agenda and a leader.

Public communication

One speaker to many listeners; structured, prepared, and audience-ready.

Organizational communication

Communication among members within an organizational structure.

Mass communication

Verbal interactions carried out through mass media technologies.

Intercultural communication

Exchange of concepts, traditions, values, and practices across cultures.

Purposes of speaking

Inform, entertain, persuade, regulate, motivate, interact, and express emotions.

Information

Providing useful or factual content.

Entertainment

Aiming to affect the audience’s emotions and enjoyment.

Persuasion

Influencing the attitudes or behaviors of others.

Regulation

Controlling actions or behavior through communication.

Motivation

Inspiring others to aim for better outcomes.

Interaction

Creating social connections and relationships through communication.

Emotional expression

Conveying feelings and affect through speech and nonverbal cues.

Speech context

The surrounding circumstances or environment that influence meaning.

Intrapersonal discussion types

Thinking, dreaming, or imagining; private inner communication.

Distance categories in communication

Public (12 ft+), Social (4–12 ft), Personal (1.5–4 ft), Intimate (up to 1.5 ft).

Dimensions of Self

Physical self (body), Emotional self (feelings), Intellectual self (cognition), Moral self (ethics and values).