Telegraphing: meaning, definitions and examples
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telegraphing
[ˈtɛlɪˌgræfɪŋ ]
Definition
communication method
Telegraphing refers to the act of sending messages over long distances using code or signals, most famously through the telegraph system. This method became widely used in the 19th century when it revolutionized communication, allowing instant transmission of information. The term now can also refer to any non-verbal cues that predict future actions, especially in contexts like sports, where players may signal intentions without explicit communication.
Synonyms
communicating, indicating, signaling.
Examples of usage
- He was telegraphing his intentions with every move on the field.
- The telegraphing of messages played a crucial role during wartime.
- Body language can often be a form of telegraphing in negotiations.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term originates from the 19th century when the telegraph was used to send messages over long distances quickly.
- Initially, telegraphing involved the use of Morse code, which converted letters into dots and dashes.
- The development of the telegraph revolutionized communication, making it possible to send messages faster than ever before.
Psychology
- Humans often communicate emotions through non-verbal cues, which can be interpreted as telegraphing their true feelings.
- Studies show that over 90% of communication is non-verbal, meaning people often give away more than they say.
- Telegraphing can include facial expressions, gestures, and posture that reveal a person's inner thoughts.
Theatrical Arts
- In acting, telegraphing emotions can be a technique used to convey a character’s feelings before lines are delivered.
- Directors often advise actors to avoid telegraphing to create more authentic performances and surprise audiences.
- Physical movements, like fidgeting or posture, are often used in theater to give away emotions subtly.
Business Communication
- In professional settings, telegraphing can refer to non-verbal signals that indicate confidence or uncertainty in negotiations.
- People often telegraph their level of engagement in meetings through body language, such as eye contact or posture.
- Awareness of one's own telegraphing can enhance effective communication skills in leadership.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters often telegraph their intentions through actions, making it easier for viewers to follow the plot.
- Telegraphing can be seen in gaming where players use emotes to show their feelings, often before any dialogue occurs.
- Reality TV shows often highlight contestants who cannot hide their emotions, effectively telegraphing their thoughts to the audience.
Translations
Translations of the word "telegraphing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 telegrafia
🇮🇳 टेलीग्राफिंग
🇩🇪 Telegrafie
🇮🇩 telegrafi
🇺🇦 телеграфування
🇵🇱 telegrafowanie
🇯🇵 電信
🇫🇷 télégraphie
🇪🇸 telegrafía
🇹🇷 telgraf
🇰🇷 전신
🇸🇦 التلغراف
🇨🇿 telegrafie
🇸🇰 telegrafovanie
🇨🇳 电报
🇸🇮 telegrafiranje
🇮🇸 sjálfvirk skeyti
🇰🇿 телеграфия
🇬🇪 ტელეგრაფია
🇦🇿 telegrafiya
🇲🇽 telegrafía
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #30,204 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
- ...
- 30201 subsume
- 30202 haulers
- 30203 restates
- 30204 telegraphing
- 30205 wearable
- 30206 tactically
- 30207 procreative
- ...