阅读理解
Watch a TV show with the sound turned off. Are you able to tell what the actors and actresses are saying or how they are feeling? Most of us have tried something like this sometimes in our life. And we've probably been able to figure out what's going on. This skill of "reading" that people without using words is called nonverbal communication (非言语交流). Here are some of them.
As a matter of fact, using facial expressions is a common way of communication. In other words, people from all kinds of backgrounds are able to know your feelings quite well through your facial expressions. However, is it true for body language?
Take gestures (手势) as an example. Some of the same gestures have very different meanings in different cultures. For example, the "OK" gesture means "good" in most cultures. If you show this sign to a man in Türkiye, however, he will think you are treating him rudely. You may get yourself in trouble.
Another important part of body language is touch. In some cultures, people pat (拍) their friends on the back as a way to praise them, but in other cultures, this behavior can be impolite. Besides, shaking hands is a common way of greeting in Western cultures. In India, however, it is impolite to shake hands with the elderly. Instead, the best way to greet them is to touch their feet.
Generally speaking, our body language depends a lot on our culture. So, the next time you decide to travel to another country, a quick search online can guide you how to behave properly.
