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Communication Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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communication

[kəˌmjuː.nɪˈkeɪ.ʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

effective communication skills

The imparting or exchanging of information by speaking, writing, or using some other medium. Communication involves the transmission of messages between a sender and a receiver, and it is essential for building relationships, resolving conflicts, and achieving common goals.

Synonyms

connection, exchange, interaction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
communication

Used when referring to the general act of conveying information or expressing thoughts and feelings. It can be verbal, written, or non-verbal and is applicable in both formal and informal settings.

  • Effective communication is key to any successful relationship
  • They had a good communication system in their team
interaction

Used to describe the reciprocal action or influence between people, objects, or systems. It often implies dynamic and ongoing processes.

  • The interaction between the teacher and students was very engaging
  • Social interaction is important for mental health
connection

Often used to describe the emotional or logical link between people, places, or ideas. It implies a sense of relationship or bond.

  • She felt a strong connection with her old friend
  • There's a connection between these two events
exchange

Most suitable when referring to the act of giving and receiving information, goods, or services between parties. It often emphasizes the mutuality of the action.

  • They had a brief exchange of ideas during the meeting
  • The exchange of gifts was a holiday tradition

Examples of usage

  • Good communication is the key to a successful relationship.
  • Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings in the workplace.
  • Clear communication is important in all aspects of life.
Context #2 | Noun

communication technology

The technology used to facilitate communication, such as the internet, smartphones, and social media platforms. Communication technology has significantly advanced in recent years, allowing people to connect and interact globally in real-time.

Synonyms

digital communication, information technology, telecommunication.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
communication

General term for the exchange of information between individuals or groups. Can be used in any situation where information is shared.

  • Effective communication is key in maintaining relationships.
  • Communication between team members improved after the meeting.
telecommunication

Specifically related to the transmission of information over distances, such as through telephones, satellites, and the internet.

  • Telecommunication technology has made long-distance communication instant and reliable.
  • The telecommunication industry is constantly evolving with new innovations.
information technology

Refers to the use of computers, software, and networks to store, process, and share information. Often used in a business or technical context.

  • He studied information technology at university.
  • The IT department is responsible for managing the company's network infrastructure.
digital communication

Specific to the exchange of information through digital means such as email, social media, and messaging apps.

  • Digital communication has revolutionized the way we interact with each other.
  • The company uses digital communication tools to stay connected with remote employees.

Examples of usage

  • The development of communication technology has revolutionized the way we communicate.
  • Social media platforms have changed the landscape of communication.
  • The internet has made communication more accessible and efficient.
Context #3 | Noun

communication breakdown

A failure or disruption in the process of communication, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, or lack of clarity. Communication breakdowns can occur due to various factors, such as differences in language, lack of feedback, or noise interference.

Synonyms

dialogue breakdown, information gap, miscommunication.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
communication

Generally used to describe the exchange of information between individuals or groups through speaking, writing, or other mediums. It is neutral and can refer to effective or ineffective interactions.

  • Good communication is key to a successful relationship.
  • The company improved its internal communication to enhance productivity.
miscommunication

Refers to a failure to communicate accurately, often resulting in misunderstandings. It usually has a negative connotation.

  • There was a miscommunication regarding the meeting time.
  • Miscommunication between the departments led to a major error.
dialogue breakdown

Implies a failure or interruption in a conversation or negotiation. It is often used in a formal context and has a negative connotation.

  • The dialogue breakdown led to increased tension between the two parties.
  • A dialogue breakdown occurred during the contract negotiations.
information gap

Describes a situation where there is a lack of necessary information that hinders understanding or decision-making. It is often used in business, education, and research contexts.

  • The information gap caused confusion among the team members.
  • To make informed decisions, we need to address the information gap.

Examples of usage

  • The communication breakdown between the two parties resulted in a misunderstanding.
  • Clear communication is crucial to avoid communication breakdowns.
  • Effective communication strategies can prevent communication breakdowns.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Studies show that non-verbal cues, like body language and facial expressions, make up a large part of communication.
  • The average person speaks around 16,000 words a day, showing how often we use language.
  • Communication is not just human; animals, including dolphins and elephants, also have their own ways of sharing information.

Cultural Aspects

  • Different cultures have unique communication styles; for example, some prefer direct speech while others value subtle hints.
  • In some cultures, silence can be just as powerful as words, conveying agreement or contemplation.
  • The rise of digital communication has changed how cultures interact, leading to a global exchange of ideas.

Literature

  • Many literary works explore themes of miscommunication and misunderstanding, highlighting its importance in human relationships.
  • Famous authors like Shakespeare have used dialogue to reveal characters' inner thoughts and emotions.
  • The advent of the printing press greatly expanded the ways people could communicate through written words.

Technology

  • With the invention of the internet, communication has transformed, allowing instant messaging and video calls worldwide.
  • Social media platforms have created new ways to connect, often blurring the lines between personal and public communication.
  • Emojis and GIFs have become essential tools in digital communication, adding emotional context to text messages.

Origin of 'communication'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'communicatio', meaning 'to share or make common'.
  • It was used in English around the 14th century, initially linked to sharing news and ideas.
  • The root 'commun' relates to being common or shared among people.

The word 'communication' originated from the Latin word 'communicare', meaning 'to share' or 'to make common'. Throughout history, communication has played a crucial role in human interaction and societal development. From early forms of verbal and written communication to modern-day advancements in technology, the ways in which we communicate have evolved significantly. Effective communication is essential in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to business interactions, and it continues to shape the way we connect and engage with one another.

See also: communicable, communicated, communicating, communicative, communicator, miscommunication, telecommunication, telecommunications, uncommunicative, uncommunicatively.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,147, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.