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.

Body Signals

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

Being aware about intonation and body language helps us to understand others better. Consciously applied it can help to support our message. However, as spoken communication, body language differs according to social and cultural contexts and habits.


Nils-Eyk Zimmermann

Nils-Eyk Zimmermann

Editor of Competendo. Coordinator of the project DIGIT-AL Digital Transformation in Adult Learning for Active Citizenship. Network Secretary of the DARE network. Topics: active citizenship, civil society, digital transformation, non-formal and lifelong learning, capacity building. Blogs here: Blog: Civil Resilience. Email: office@dare-network.eu