Page 192 - Communication across Cultures

Communication across Cultures

tures and hand movements.
Although nonverbal signals tend to enhance and support language, they can min-
imize or even contradict a verbal message. For example, the phrase “I would like to
meet with you and discuss this issue in more detail” can take on different meanings de-
pending on the nonverbal signals accompanying the words. For instance, a smile while
pulling out a calendar will support the words; going on without pausing to the next top-
ic after the statement may indicate that the speaker is not serious and is not interested
in meeting, at least not now; or a frown and a search for something on the desk while
uttering the words may contradict the message altogether.
Now let’s specifically examine paralanguage and silence used as means of nonver-
bal communication.

6.5.1 Paralanguage

Paralanguage lies between verbal and nonverbal communication. It involves sounds
but not words. The uhs, ahas, and uhms we use in our conversation are examples of
paralanguage. It includes various vocal cues and features, such as tone of voice, pitch,
volume, rhythm, intonation, and pauses. Paralanguage provides additional meaning and
context to verbal communication, conveying emotions, attitudes, emphasis, and other
nonverbal information.
Paralanguage is an essential aspect of communication as it can significantly impact
the interpretation and understanding of spoken words. For instance, the same words
spoken with different intonation or emphasis can convey completely different meanings
or sentiments. Paralanguage can convey emotions like anger, excitement, sadness, or
sarcasm, and it can also indicate the speaker’s confidence, uncertainty, or sincerity.
Researchers divide paralanguage into three categories: voice quality, vocal quali-
fiers, and vocalization. Voice quality seems to be more of an individual than a cultural
characteristic, and so we will examine vocal qualifiers and vocalization.
1) Vocal Qualifier
A vocal qualifier is a paralinguistic element of speech that modifies or adds nuance
to the meaning of words or sentences. It provides additional information about the
speaker’s attitude, certainty, or emphasis on a particular statement. Vocal qualifiers help
convey the speaker’s subjective perspective or opinion about what is being said. Some
common examples of vocal qualifiers include:
Intensity: The intensity or strength of the voice can indicate the speaker’s level of
emphasis or enthusiasm. For example, using a louder voice can convey excitement or

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