Definition

Noun: 1. Non-verbal communication through physical behavior: The process of communicating feelings, thoughts, or intentions unconsciously through gestures, postures, facial expressions, and other bodily movements, rather than through speech.

Usage

"Body language" is an uncountable noun. It refers to the overall, often subconscious, system of non-verbal cues. It is typically used with singular verbs. * Understanding body language is a key skill in effective communication. * Her confident body language made a strong impression during the interview. * Crossed arms can be a defensive piece of body language.

Examples

• The negotiator paid close attention to the other party's body language for signs of agreement or hesitation.
• A speaker's body language should align with their spoken message to appear authentic.
• Much of our emotional state is revealed through our body language.

Advanced Usage

• To read someone's body language: To interpret or understand the non-verbal signals someone is giving.
  • A good teacher can read the students' body language to gauge if they are confused or engaged.
• Open/closed body language: Terms describing postures that signal receptiveness (open, e.g., uncrossed arms) or defensiveness/unwillingness (closed, e.g., crossed arms, turned-away torso).
  • During the meeting, he maintained open body language to encourage discussion.

Variants and Related Words

• Non-verbal communication (n): A broader, more formal term encompassing body language, as well as other cues like tone of voice (paralanguage) and use of space (proxemics).
• Kinesics (n): The technical, academic study of body language and non-verbal behavioral communication.

Synonyms

• Non-verbal cues
• Gestures and postures
• Physical expression

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Actions speak louder than words: This idiom emphasizes that what someone does (which includes their body language) is more significant than what they say.
  • He said he was fine, but his slumped posture and averted gaze told a different story—actions speak louder than words.

Noun

1. communication via the movements or attitudes of the body