OVERCOMMUNICATION Meaning and
Definition
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Overcommunication is a concept that pertains to excessive or unnecessary communication within a particular context or relationship. It refers to a situation where there is an overwhelming amount of information or messages being conveyed, often resulting in confusion, inefficiency, or an excessive use of resources such as time and energy.
In the context of workplace communication, overcommunication can occur when individuals feel compelled to constantly provide updates, share information, or seek validation beyond what is necessary or beneficial for the task at hand. This can lead to information overload, increased noise, and a decrease in overall productivity.
In personal relationships, overcommunication can manifest as an excessive need for constant communication or reassurance, and may be perceived as clingy, intrusive, or overwhelming. It can create a sense of suffocation or intrusion of personal space and time, potentially straining the relationship.
Overcommunication can also refer to instances where multiple channels of communication are used simultaneously, such as through face-to-face conversations, phone calls, emails, and instant messaging, resulting in redundancy or unnecessary duplication of efforts.
While effective communication is crucial in any setting, overcommunication can create an imbalance, hinder progress, and negatively impact relationships. Striking a balance between providing adequate information and avoiding overcommunication is important for ensuring efficient and effective communication processes.
Etymology of OVERCOMMUNICATION
The word "overcommunication" is a compound word that consists of two components: "over" and "communication".
1. "Over": It derives from the Old English word "of(e)r", which means "above" or "beyond". This word has Germanic origins and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages like German "über" and Dutch "over".
2. "Communication": It comes from the Latin word "communicare", meaning "to share" or "to impart". This Latin word is a combination of "com-" (meaning "together" or "with") and "munus" (meaning "gift" or "duty").
Combining these components, "overcommunication" suggests an excessive or excessive amount of sharing, imparting, or exchanging information or messages.
