Definition

Related to the non-verbal elements of communication, such as tone of voice, gestures, and facial expressions, that accompany spoken language.

Example

Her paralinguistic cues, like her tone and body language, revealed her true feelings about the situation.

Conversation

Did you notice how she used her hands while speaking?

Yeah, her paralinguistic cues really added to her message.

I think it's fascinating how much we communicate without words.

Absolutely! Those non-verbal signals can be so powerful.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Paralinguistic → It is formed from "para-" (meaning alongside or beyond) and "linguistic" (from Latin "lingua", meaning tongue or language). The term refers to aspects of communication that accompany spoken language, such as tone, pitch, and body language, which exist alongside the words themselves.

Memory Tip

Think of 'para-' meaning 'alongside' and 'linguistic' relating to 'language' — this helps you remember that paralinguistic refers to the elements that accompany spoken language.

Visually Confused Words