Select the correct definition of kinesics.

• A. Words that have the effect of manipulating others, due to their strong positive or negative association
• B. Language that is clear, direct and definite
• C. The process of interpreting body movement and gestures as a form of non-verbal communication
• D. The non-verbal parts of speech as intonation, tone, speed of speech and allowing silence

Answer: (C)

Kinesics is about reading and interpreting body movement and gestures as a form of non-verbal communication. It includes facial expressions, postures, hand gestures, body orientation, and other movements that convey meaning without words. In practice, this helps you understand how someone is feeling or what they’re signaling beyond what they say aloud, which is especially useful in corrections for gauging intent, de-escalation, and building rapport. It’s distinct from manipulation through words, which is about verbal messaging, and from the clear verbal language described as direct speech. It also differs from voice-focused cues like tone, rate, or pauses, which fall under paralinguistics rather than body movement.