Para language

Paralanguage:
Communication by means other than
language. Language beyond language
and like a language
Paralanguage includes intentional and
unintentional nonverbal messages
• The set of non-phonemic properties of speech,
such as speaking tempo, vocal pitch, that can be used
to communicate attitudes or other shades of
meaning [Mention of Paralanguage: Since
1950 in Canon of Communication Theory]
• Role of voice/Rythm/Rate/Tone
• Sarcasm, Anger, Affection, Confidence
• Pitch:(Direction of Pitch, Range of Pitch-Highness
and lowness of voice, loudness, tension, resonance)
• Speed/Rate: (How fast you are speaking?)
• Volume: (How loudly or softly?)
• Pause: (Voice Quality: Even in Telephone)
• Stress: (Volume and pitch: Amount you
emphasis placed in words)
example: I like him very much
• Non Fluencies:
• Gasps
Sudden and sharp inhalation of air
Occurs from the emotion of surprise, or shock
• Sigh
Negative emotion: Dismay, dissatisfaction,Boredom
Positive emotion: Relief from negative
situations or some stressful situation
 Paralanguage includes

• Facial expressions • Patterns of touch

• Tones of voice • Expressive movements

• Gestures • Silence

• Eye contact
 Paralanguage may be:

• Complementary

• Unconscious

• Learned
 Principles of Paralanguage

• Paralanguage refers to the vocal aspect of communication.

• Vocal elements of language differ from verbal elements in

this way: vocal elements involve sound and its manipulation
for certain desired or undesired effects.

• Verbal elements are the particular words we choose when

speaking.
 Chart of Feelings

Feeling Volume Pace Pitch

Anger Loud Fast High

Joy Loud Fast High

Sadness Soft Slow Low

Andy Murray letting out a
A pilot breathes a sigh of relief.
sigh during a game.
Cultural Specific Emblems

• Can you guess what the

following gestures from
Japan, France and Iran
mean?
 Japanese Gestures

ANGRY HUNGRY; LETS EAT!

Index finders pointing out from head, like
horns.

ASKING FOR FORGIVENESS;

FAVOR, THANKING FOR A MEAL GREETING