Chapter 3: Verbal Communication

Have you ever said something that someone else misinterpreted as something else? Some of the most common problems in interpersonal communication stem from the use of language.

The language we use is complex and powerful. Often, we do not consider how our use of language impacts our relationships and the world around us.

Language is a system of human communication using a particular form of spoken or written words or other symbols. Language consists of the use of words in a structured way. Language helps us understand others’ wants, needs, and desires. Language can help create connections, but it can also pull us apart. Language is so vital to communication. Imagine if you never learned a language; how would you be able to function? Without language, how could you develop meaningful connections with others? Language allows us to express ourselves and obtain our goals.

In this chapter, we’ll explore the relationship between language and meaning, how we come to know the content and rules of verbal communication, different functions of language, how to use words well, and the relationship between language and culture.