What You Need to Know

Key Concept Diagram

High-context cultures rely heavily on implicit meaning, relationship, and non-verbal cues

Low-context cultures rely on explicit verbal communication and written rules

Non-verbal communication including gestures, eye contact, and personal space varies across cultures

Register and formality norms differ between cultures and contexts

Cultural misunderstandings often arise from different assumptions about communication norms

Key Vocabulary

High-context culture

A culture where communication relies heavily on implicit, non-verbal cues and shared understanding

Low-context culture

A culture where communication is explicit, direct, and relies on words rather than context

Register

The level of formality in language appropriate to a particular situation or audience

Non-verbal communication

Communication through body language, facial expressions, gestures, and other non-spoken means

Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.

Question 1

In a high-context culture, much of the meaning in communication is conveyed:

Through very detailed written contracts Through formal academic language By speaking very loudly Through implicit cues, relationships, and shared understanding

Question 2

A gesture that is polite in one culture may be offensive in another. This demonstrates:

That non-verbal communication varies across cultures That gestures have universal meanings That language is always sufficient That all cultures are identical

Question 3

Adapting your level of formality when speaking to someone from a different cultural background demonstrates:

Disrespect Cultural awareness and communication competence Ignorance Incompetence

Cross-Cultural Communication