Communication is the activity of conveying meaningful information through various means, both verbal and nonverbal. Effective communication requires consideration of the receiver, though communication can occur across distances in space and time. There are many kinds of communication, including visual, human, nonverbal, nonhuman, oral, animal, verbal, and nonverbal communication such as body language, gestures, and movements. Communication can be formal, following set guidelines, or informal between friends and family without rigid rules. Determining whether communication is formal or informal depends on factors like tone and language. Communication is important as how we communicate determines the quality of our lives.