Throughout the day, you might be communicating at work, with family, with friends or with acquaintances. Nonverbal communication is a very powerful way of communicating, and experts say that the majority of our communication is nonverbal. Body language has a big effect on what message we send to others.
Repetition
Repetition is when your body language repeats the message you are stating verbally to a person. For example, if you are giving someone directions to turn right and then go straight, you might point to the right with your hand and then make a gesture with both hands to go straight.
Contradiction
When body language tells someone that what you are saying is not what you mean, it is called contradiction. For instance, you might say to a co-worker, "I am really happy to be at work today" as you roll your eyes. This indicates to her that you really do not mean what you are saying.
Substitution
A gesture can state a message that is not verbalized, a form of body language referred to as substitution. For example, instead of saying, "Be quiet!" you might press your forefinger to closed lips, in a silent but visible "Shhh." Another example is shaking your head from side to side instead of saying the word "no."
Complementing
Complementing is when body language supplements or completes the message you are giving verbally. You might say to a friend, "You really are a great friend" and then pat him on the back or give him a hug. This complements the verbal message, giving it more substance.
Accenting
Body language can accentuate the message being given verbally. For example, you might say to your husband, "I don't want to do the dishes anymore!" and then slam a pan on the counter. This indicates to him that you are serious about what you said.
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