Nonverbal communication meaning can be perfectly
summed up in one quote – “Actions speak louder
than words.”
We don’t always need words to express how we feel. A
simple nod can say yes. A frown can show
disagreement. Our body language and gestures often
speak on our behalf.
In fact, Albert Mehrabian’s research found that over
55% of communication happens through body language
alone. That’s why understanding these unspoken
signals is so important.
Reading and using nonverbal communication the right
way can help you connect better and build stronger
relationships in your personal and professional life.
In this blog, we’ll explain the definition and types of
nonverbal communication along with tips to improve it
in daily life.
What Is Nonverbal Communication?
Here is a simple formula that perfectly explains
nonverbal communication meaning and definition.
Nonverbal communication refers to the process of
conveying messages through physical behaviors rather
than words. It includes your facial expressions,
gestures, posture, eye movements, and even your vocal
tone.
These signals often happen naturally and can reveal
more than what is said. Nonverbal cues help people
understand emotions, build trust, and respond better in
daily conversations.
Read more: What Is Communication? Definition and
Meaning
Nonverbal Communication Basics
Definition The process of sharing messages without spoken or written
words.
Term origin 1956
Coined the Jurgen Ruesch (psychiatrist) and Weldon Kees (author)
term
History Studied since Darwin’s time
Gained major attention in the 20th century
Types Facial expressions
Gestures
Body posture
Tone
Eye contact
Space
Touch
Examples Nodding for yes
Crossed arms for disagreement
Eye roll
Handshake
Importance Builds trust
Shows emotions
Adds depth to words
Avoids misunderstandings
Applications Interviews
Presentations
Relationships
Conflict resolution
Common issuesMixed signals
Misinterpretation
Unconscious habits
Tips to improveBe aware of your body
Control your tone
Observe others
Stay emotionally aware
7 Main Types of Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication shows up in many forms.
These seven types are the most common ways we
express ourselves without speaking.
Read more: Improve Your Communication Skills
Quickly
1. Facial Expressions
Your face is your emotional billboard. You don’t need
to say “I am upset” when your eyebrows are furrowed
or lips are tight. A genuine smile can calm tension in
seconds. And the best part? Facial expressions like
happiness, fear, and anger are understood across all
cultures. That is how powerful this form is – it speaks a
universal language.
2. Gestures
Gestures are intentional hand or body movements used
to emphasize meaning. A wave signals hello. A thumbs-
up shows approval. But not every gesture means the
same everywhere. The “OK” sign is friendly in the US,
but offensive in Brazil or Germany. Gestures are not
universal. What is polite in one country might be
offensive in another, which makes cultural awareness
essential.
Read more: Top Skills to Conquer Campus Placement
Interviews
3. Body Posture and Movement
The way you carry yourself shows how you feel. Good
posture shows attentiveness and respect. Crossed arms
may signal defensiveness. Constant shifting or
slouching might be interpreted as anxiety or
disinterest. Others pick up on these cues, even if you
don't notice them yourself.
4. Eye Contact
Eyes often reveal what words don’t. Maintaining eye
contact can show that you are engaged and confident.
Looking away may suggest uncertainty or discomfort.
But this varies by culture. In some regions, direct eye
contact is seen as assertive. In others, it may be
considered disrespectful. The context and audience
always matter.
Read more: Understanding interviewer’s body
language and how to read it
5. Tone of Voice (Paralanguage)
Paralanguage refers to how something is said rather
than what is said. Your tone, pitch, speed, and volume
all affect how your message is received. A calm tone
during conflict can de-escalate tension. A sharp or
rushed tone might signal stress. Listeners often
respond more to tone than the actual words.
6. Touch (Haptics)
Touch carries deep emotional weight. A handshake can
feel cold or warm depending on how it is done. A pat
on the back may say “good job,” while a firm grip can
signal dominance. Touch is powerful, but also
sensitive. Its meaning depends on the relationship,
setting, and cultural norms, so it must be used
thoughtfully.
7. Use of Space (Proxemics)
The physical distance you maintain during interactions
says a lot about your comfort level and the
relationship. Standing too close can feel aggressive.
Too far might seem disengaged. In team discussions or
client meetings, respecting personal space supports a
more positive and productive exchange. Cultural
expectations also influence how space is perceived.
Read more: How to Use Nonverbal Communication in a
Job Interview?
Examples of Nonverbal Communication in
Everyday Life
We use nonverbal cues in almost every setting – often
without realizing it. Here are everyday examples
broken into two simple categories for easy
understanding.
A. Examples of Nonverbal Communication at Home
At home, we often show emotions through simple
actions. Here are a few ways nonverbal communication
plays out with family and loved ones.
B. Examples of Nonverbal Communication at Workplace
In the office, how you carry yourself matters as much
as what you say. Here are a few common nonverbal
cues you will notice at work.
Read more: What Are the Barriers of Communication?
How to Improve Your Nonverbal
Communication Skills
Small adjustments in how you move, look, or speak can
change the message entirely. Here are some helpful
tips to improve your nonverbal communication skills.
1. Watch Yourself on Video
Record a real conversation or presentation. Look at
your posture, eye movement, and gestures. You will
spot patterns that feel normal to you but send the
wrong message to others. Self-awareness is the first
step to change.
Read more: How to Write a Resume: A Step-by-Step
Guide
2. Limit Unnecessary Movements
Avoid overusing gestures or shifting constantly.
Instead, keep your movements intentional and still
when you are listening. This shows confidence and
focus. When you do gesture, do it with purpose. Don’t
let your hands distract from your message.
3. Make Expression Match Emotion
If you are expressing concern but smiling nervously,
your message feels off. Practice showing emotion with
your face. Watch how your tone and facial expression
align. Misalignment leads to mistrust.
Read more: What Are Interpersonal Communication
Skills?
4. Adapt Based on Feedback
Watch how others react to you. Do they lean in or pull
back? Mirror their comfort zone. If someone looks
tense, soften your body language to reduce pressure.
Good communicators adapt in real time.
5. Breathe Before You Speak
Rushed breathing leads to shaky tone and tense
posture. Take a deep breath before a presentation or
tough conversation. You will sound calmer and more in
control. People listen better when your voice carries
steady energy.
6. Use Silence with Intention
Not every pause is awkward. A brief pause after a
strong statement gives it space to land. It also shows
you are not rushing. Silence, when used wisely, adds
power to your message.
Read more: How to Use Communication Skills In an
Interview?
Why Is Nonverbal Communication Important?
Nonverbal Communication Important
Nonverbal cues make up a large part of how we
communicate. In fact, research suggests that 93% of
communication is nonverbal. Here’s why it matters –
Helps express true emotions clearly
Builds or breaks trust in conversations
Supports what you say or silently replaces it
Shows confidence without needing words
Helps avoid misunderstandings in personal and
professional settings
Strengthens relationships by improving connection and
understanding
Makes your message more impactful and believable
Read more: Unique Soft Skills For Your Resume
Verbal vs. Nonverbal Communication
We often combine spoken words with body signals.
Here is how verbal and nonverbal communication
differ in purpose, form, and impact.
Verbal Nonverbal Communication
Communication
Definition Using spoken or Expressing without words
written words through behavior or signals
Form Speech, writing Facial expressions, gestures,
tone, posture
Control Mostly conscious Often unconscious
Clarity Usually clear and direct Can be vague or open to
interpretation
Speed Immediate and fast Instant, but may need
observation
Use in Shares facts or ideas Shows emotion, attitude, or
Communication reaction
Cultural Impact Language rules vary by Meanings vary more widely
region across cultures
FAQs
Q. What is the meaning of nonverbal communication?
Nonverbal communication means sharing thoughts,
feelings, or information without using words. It
includes facial expressions, gestures, posture, tone of
voice, and eye contact.
Read more: BPO Interview Questions For Freshers With
Answers
Q. How much of communication is nonverbal?
According to research by Albert Mehrabian, up to 93%
of communication is nonverbal – 55% through body
language and 38% through tone of voice.
Q. What is Albert Mehrabian's 7 38 55 communication
model?
Mehrabian’s model says that when people talk about
feelings or attitudes, 7% of meaning comes from
words, 38% from tone, and 55% from body language.
This applies only when the message is emotional or
unclear.
Q. Why is nonverbal communication important in the
workplace?
It helps build trust, show confidence, and strengthen
team communication. Good nonverbal skills can
improve leadership, presentations, and client
interactions.
Q. Is body language the same in every culture?
No. Some gestures, eye contact, or touch may mean
different things across cultures. What’s polite in one
place might be rude in another.
