non-verbal

Meanings

1. 1adjectivenot comparable

   Relating to communication that does not use words, such as facial expressions or gestures.

   Grammar: Used before a noun: non-verbal communication. It can also be used after a linking verb: His signals were non-verbal.

   Patterns

   • non-verbal communication
   • non-verbal signals
   • non-verbal cues

   Much of what we communicate is non-verbal.

   She gave a non-verbal signal to leave the room.

   Teachers should be aware of non-verbal cues from students.

2. 2adjectivenot comparablemedical

   Unable to speak or not using speech, especially because of a disability or condition.

   Grammar: Often used to describe a person: a non-verbal child. It can also be used after a linking verb: He is non-verbal.

   Patterns

   • non-verbal child
   • non-verbal autism
   • be non-verbal

   The non-verbal student uses a tablet to communicate.

   After the stroke, he was non-verbal for several weeks.

   Some children with autism may be non-verbal.

Common combinations

non-verbal communication

Non-verbal communication includes tone of voice and body language.

non-verbal cues

She picked up on his non-verbal cues and knew he was upset.

non-verbal signals

The dog responded to her non-verbal signals.

non-verbal child

The non-verbal child communicates through pictures.

Synonyms and how they differ

wordless

Wordless means without words, often describing a moment or action; non-verbal is more technical and can describe a person who cannot speak.

silent

Silent means making no sound; non-verbal means not using words, even if sound is made.

Opposites

Word family

verbally adverb

In spoken words; orally.

verbal adjective

Relating to words, especially spoken words.

Commonly confused: non-verbal or verbal?

Practice

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Write a sentence using “non-verbal”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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