What term is used for nonverbal communication conveyed through physical actions?

The correct term for nonverbal communication conveyed through physical actions is body language. Body language encompasses various forms of nonverbal signals, including gestures, posture, eye contact, and overall physical demeanor, which can all communicate emotions and intentions without the use of spoken words.

Understanding body language is crucial in both personal and professional interactions, as it can often reveal more about a person's feelings or attitudes than their verbal communication. For instance, crossed arms may suggest defensiveness, while open body posture can indicate openness and receptiveness.

Other terms like verbal cues, facial expressions, and vocal tone refer to different aspects of communication. Verbal cues involve spoken language, while facial expressions specifically pertain to a person's face and can be considered a subset of body language. Vocal tone refers to the way words are spoken, including pitch, volume, and rhythm, which contributes to the interpretation of verbal messages, rather than to physical actions themselves. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the role of body language as a comprehensive form of nonverbal communication.