It is about the types of verbal messages.

1. Verbal
Messages

2. What is Language?
A language is a system of symbols used by people
to communicate. They are comprised of a lexicon,
a collection of words and expressions; a phonology,
sounds used to pronounce words; as well as syntax and
grammar, rules for combining words to for sentences.

3. Characteristics of Language
• 1. Language is arbitrary.
• 2. Language is abstract.
• 3. Language changes over time.

4. The Relationship Between Language
and Meaning
Semantics
• Semantic meaning is derived from the words
themselves and how they are arranged into
sentences.
• Identifying the meaning of a word is tricky
because words actually have two types of
meanings.

5. • Denotation is the explicit meaning found in the
dictionary of a language community.
• Connotation is the implicit additional meaning we
associate with a word.

6. Guidelines for Improving Semantics
• 1. Use specific language. Specific
language
• 2. Use concrete language. Concrete
language
• 3. Use familiar language.
• 4. Use descriptive details and examples.
• 5. Demonstrate linguistic sensitivity.

7. Pragmatics
• Pragmatic meaning comes from interpreting a
message related to the conversational
context of it.

8. Guidelines for Improving Pragmatics
• 1. Tell the truth.
• 2. Provide the right amount of
• information.
• 3. Relate what you say to the topic being
discussed.
• 4. Acknowledge when your message
violates a guideline.
• 5. Assume the best first.

9. Sociolinguistics
• Sociolinguistic meaning varies according to the
norms of a particular culture or co-culture.
Sociolinguistic misunderstandings occur when we
interact with someone who operates using different
norms regarding how words are combined, how to
say what to whom and when, and verbal style.

10. Guidelines for Improving Sociolinguistic
Understanding
• 1. Develop intercultural competence.
• 2. Practice mindfulness.
• 3. Respect and adapt to the
sociolinguistic practices of others.