PARALINGUISTIC Meaning and
Definition
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Paralinguistic refers to the non-verbal aspects of communication that accompany, enhance, or modify spoken language. It encompasses the wide range of vocal signals and cues, as well as other non-verbal cues, that convey meaning beyond the literal content of words.
In paralinguistic communication, vocal cues include elements such as tone of voice, pitch, loudness, rhythm, and vocal quality. These vocal features provide additional information about the speaker's emotions, attitudes, intentions, and emphasis, thus enriching the overall communication. For example, a speaker's use of a high-pitched voice could indicate excitement or fear, while a slow and deep voice might portray seriousness or authority.
Aside from vocal cues, paralinguistic communication also includes non-verbal signals like facial expressions, body language, gestures, and eye contact. These non-verbal cues often work in conjunction with verbal language to transmit meaning and convey intentions. For instance, a person's facial expression of raised eyebrows and wide eyes might indicate surprise or astonishment, while crossed arms and a stern expression convey defensiveness or disagreement.
Paralinguistic communication plays a crucial role in interpersonal interactions, enabling individuals to express feelings, attitudes, and intentions that cannot be fully conveyed through words alone. It facilitates better comprehension and interpretation of verbal messages, leading to enhanced understanding and more effective communication between individuals.
Common Misspellings for PARALINGUISTIC
- oaralinguistic
- laralinguistic
- -aralinguistic
- 0aralinguistic
- pzralinguistic
- psralinguistic
- pwralinguistic
- pqralinguistic
- paealinguistic
- padalinguistic
- pafalinguistic
- patalinguistic
- pa5alinguistic
- pa4alinguistic
- parzlinguistic
- parslinguistic
- parwlinguistic
- parqlinguistic
- parakinguistic
- parapinguistic
Etymology of PARALINGUISTIC
The word "paralinguistic" is derived from two components: "para-" and "linguistic".
1. "Para-": The prefix "para-" is derived from the Greek word "pará", which means "beside" or "alongside". In English, it is commonly used to denote "beyond" or "secondary to". It often indicates something that is parallel or related to but distinct from the main subject.
2. "Linguistic": This term comes from the Latin word "lingua", meaning "tongue" or "language". It refers to anything related to language or speech.
When combined, "paralinguistic" thus means something that is alongside or related to language, but not an integral part of the linguistic system itself.
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