Arizona State University (ASU) COM259 Communication in Business and the Professions Midterm Practice Exam

Nonverbal communication can be defined as the transmission of messages through body language, which encompasses a variety of non-verbal cues such as gestures, posture, eye contact, and facial expressions. This mode of communication plays a crucial role in conveying feelings and emotions, often complementing or substituting verbal messages. Recognizing body language can enhance understanding in interpersonal interactions and help convey relationships between individuals.

The other definitions do not encompass the full meaning of nonverbal communication. Spoken words and written texts are forms of verbal communication, which has distinct characteristics and methods of transmission. Disregarding facial expressions entirely would miss an essential component of nonverbal cues, as facial expressions are among the most powerful indicators of emotional and social information. Therefore, the most accurate description of nonverbal communication involves the messages transmitted through body language, making that option the correct one.