In verbal communication we include both ORAL & WRITTEN communication. But, generally verbal means only oral. So what is the logic behind that?
In today's class (22-06-2008), you explained regarding verbal and non verbal communication. You said that 'when thoughts are explained through words, then it is called as verbal communications', and it can be oral or written. If so, Why Para language is sub-headed under non-verbal communication, sir? Does Para language and oral communication have some relation?
These two questions are related to each other so they are answered together.
Let us first understand what these words mean.
Oral means pertaining to the mouth. This means Oral communication relates to words that are spoken rather than written. The word is derived from the Latin oralis, ‘of the mouth’. Thus an oral examination is one where the answers are spoken and not written.
Verbal means pertaining to words spoken or written. The predominant sense here is that words are used rather than sounds or gestures. Thus any communication that uses words whether spoken or written is Verbal.
The adjective verbal is sometimes used when what is really meant is oral. The phrase verbal agreement is particularly notorious in this regard. People use it to mean a spoken agreement, when all it really means is ‘an agreement in words.’ A verbal agreement could accordingly, in writing or by words spoken. In this sense, the word verbal is related to Express i. e. by words spoken or written.
If you want to refer to an agreement entered into by word of mouth or by speech only then you should refer to it as an oral agreement or simply a spoken agreement.
Yes! Both Para Language and Oral Communication have a link with the mouth. Both are based on sound. But Oral Communication is the use of words spoken while Para-language is the use and interpretation of attributes of sounds such as the volume, pitch, speed, tone etc., Thus Para-Language is not verbal as it does not involve words. Therefore it is classified as Non-verbal communication. Non-verbal communication also involves interpretation and use of gestures, eye contact, posture etc.,
There is one more word Aural, which pertains to the ear. Words that are spoken can be heard. So Aural can also be used where you want to say spoken by word of mouth.
2 comments:
"Verbal" does indeed mean "expressed through words." However, if one examines the etymology of the word "verbal" once sees that, since the 16th c. it has also been a synonym for oral. After 500 years of common usage, one would assume the post 16th c. version as documented in a variety of dictionaries is valid.
Hence, a "verbal agreement" is a spoken or oral agreement. It is NOT an agreement expressed in words if written, which would be a a "written agreement."
Words may be established by both usage and by statute. Many state statutes in the U.S. specifically define "verbal agreement" as a spoken or oral agreement and not in writing. A good lexicographer must take into account the statutory definitions of words as well.
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