Types of Communication- Verbal Communication

Types of Communication

Verbal Communication

Meaning of Verbal Communication

Verbal communication refers to the use of words to convey ideas, feelings, information, support, and experiences. The term verbal is derived from the Latin word “verbum,” meaning word. In simple terms, whenever words are used to communicate, it is verbal communication.

Strong verbal communication can make an ordinary idea sound impressive, while poor verbal communication can completely destroy a brilliant one. Words matter. A lot.

Types of Verbal Communication

Verbal communication is broadly divided into two types:

1. Oral Communication

2. Written Communication

Oral Communication 

Oral communication is a type of verbal communication that involves spoken words. It is the most direct, personal, and interactive form of communication, allowing immediate exchange between the speaker and the listener.

This form of communication is widely used in classrooms, meetings, interviews, presentations, and everyday conversations.

Features of Oral Communication

• Uses spoken language

• Allows immediate feedback

• Involves tone, pitch, speed, and clarity

• Often supported by non-verbal cues

• Requires listening as much as speaking (yes, both are compulsory)

Forms of Oral Communication

1. Face-to-Face Communication

This is direct interaction between individuals where spoken words are supported by facial expressions, gestures, posture, and eye contact.

Advantages:

• Immediate feedback

• Better understanding through non-verbal cues

Limitations:

• Emotional reactions can affect communication

• No scope for correction once words are spoken

2. Telephone Communication

Telephone communication uses the human voice to connect people over distance.

Advantages:

• Quick and convenient

• Saves time and travel

Limitations:

• No visual cues

• Network problems

• Possibility of unclear pronunciation or misunderstanding

3. Presentations

Presentations are a formal type of oral communication commonly used in educational institutions and organizations to convey ideas, reports, plans, or proposals.

Key Points:

• Often supported by visual aids such as slides or charts

• Helps simplify complex information

• Requires confidence, clarity, and organization

A good presentation informs. A bad one tests patience.

4. Public Speech

Public speech involves a single speaker addressing a large audience.

Characteristics:

• Limited direct feedback

• Requires strong voice control and confidence

• Can influence, motivate, or inform a large group

If done well, it inspires. If done poorly, people start checking their phones.

5. Interviews

An interview is a structured oral interaction designed to assess a person’s knowledge, skills, attitude, and personality.

Key Insight:
In interviews, how you say something often matters as much as what you say. Tone, confidence, and clarity can make or break the outcome.

Importance of Oral Communication

• Enhances clarity and understanding

• Builds confidence and interpersonal skills

• Essential for academic and professional success

• Strengthens teamwork and relationships

Advantages and Limitatons of Oral Communication

Advantages of Oral Communication	Limitations of Oral Communication
Allows immediate feedback	No permanent record
Quick and time-saving	Risk of misunderstanding
Personal and interactive	Words cannot be taken back
Encourages clarification through questions	Emotional influence may distort message
Uses tone, pitch, and body language	Not suitable for lengthy or complex information
Builds confidence and relationships	Requires good speaking and listening skills
Effective for group discussions and meetings	Difficult to refer back later (Choose the correct option from the brackets) Verbal communication refers to the use of __________ to convey ideas and information. (gestures / words / symbols) The term verbal is derived from the Latin word __________. (vox / verbum / verba) Whenever words are used to communicate, it is called __________ communication. (non-verbal / visual / verbal) Verbal communication is broadly divided into __________ and written communication. (oral / visual / non-verbal) Oral communication involves __________ words. (written / spoken / printed) Oral communication allows __________ feedback between the speaker and the listener. (delayed / written / immediate) Tone, pitch, speed, and clarity are important features of __________ communication. (written / oral / visual) Face-to-face communication is supported by facial expressions, gestures, and __________. (documents / eye contact / emails) Telephone communication helps people connect over __________. (distance / emotions / documents) One major limitation of telephone communication is the absence of __________ cues. (verbal / visual / written) Presentations are often supported by visual aids such as __________ or charts. (letters / slides / notices) Public speech usually has __________ direct feedback from the audience. (continuous / limited / written) An interview is a __________ oral interaction. (casual / structured / informal) In interviews, __________ often matters as much as what you say. (speed / tone and confidence / volume) Oral communication helps build confidence and __________ skills. (technical / interpersonal / mechanical) One advantage of oral communication is that it allows immediate __________. (correction / feedback / recording) A major limitation of oral communication is that there is no __________ record. (visual / written / permanent) Words spoken in oral communication __________ be taken back. (can / cannot / may) Oral communication is not suitable for lengthy or __________ information. (simple / complex / spoken) Effective oral communication requires good speaking and __________ skills. (writing / listening / reading)