Language without words: Body language

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Language is often reduced to verbal communication. It may seem that non-verbal communication only attracts our attention in extreme situations: A coach whose face has turned red, running and yelling at the edge of the field. Or a deliberate glance that says it all. But actually, body language plays a role just as important as verbal communication.

These signals say more than words

  • Intonation
  • Tempo of speech
  • Facial expressions
  • Physical signals & posture
  • Gestures
  • Body language
  • Eye contact
  • Positioning in the room

With knowledge about intonation and body language, we can shape situations more effectively and maybe understand them without words. Body language also differs according to social and cultural background. And if the recipient of the message does not know how to interpret it correctly, misunderstandings will occur.


Nils-Eyk Zimmermann

Nils-Eyk Zimmermann

Editor of Competendo. He writes and works on the topics: active citizenship, civil society, digital transformation, non-formal and lifelong learning, capacity building. Coordinator of European projects, in example DIGIT-AL Digital Transformation in Adult Learning for Active Citizenship, DARE network.

Blogs here: Blog: Civil Resilience.
Email: nils.zimmermann@dare-network.eu