VERBAL COMMUNICATION

Verbal Communication  Words- symbols that represent things but are not the things themselves  Denotative meaning- dictionary definition  Connotative meaning- individual’s emotional or personal response to a word

Verbal Communication  Accurate communication depends on the degree to which words represent the same thing to the sender and receiver

Kinds of Language  Jargon (technical language)- relates to a particular subject and is marked by specialization  Regional terms- speech peculiar to a geographical area  Slang- informal, nonstandard vocabulary; unique to a particular group

Kinds of Language (cont).  Cultural terms- related to particular background of a group of people  Idioms- phrases/expressions that are not meant to be taken literally  Cliché- overused expression  Simile- comparison using like or as  Metaphor- compares unlike things by saying that one thing is the other

More about language…  Formal vs. informal language  General vs. specific language  Word choice: accuracy (using a word that fits), clarity (making sure it clearly expresses your thought), appropriateness (to audience & situation), and originality (unique)

Verbal Strategies  Strategy- tactic, careful plan or method  Verbal strategies- the way people use words; chosen to have a specific effect on another person  Tactics include: to exclude, include, put down, build up, reveal self, and conceal self