Nonverbal Communication in Intercultural Communication: A Case Study of Telling Lies

As economic globalization advances, there are increasingly frequent communications and interactions taking place among people. Effective communication involves both verbal and nonverbal aspects. Language, being the primary means of communication, reflects a culture's customs, traditions, values, and other aspects. To improve communication, it is essential to understand both verbal and nonverbal forms of expression. Unfortunately, many people mistakenly believe that nonverbal communication is limited to body language, facial expressions, and gestures. However, it also encompasses tone of voice, eye contact, clothing, and personal accessories. Despite verbal communication being the primary method of communication, nonverbal communication is often more convincing. Thus, communication is a complex and dynamic process that extends beyond verbal language. Contemporary research tends to prioritize verbal communication, inadvertently overlooking the significant role that nonverbal communication plays in our daily interactions. In this study, the author aims to examine the various facets of nonverbal communication using Paul Ekman's Telling Lies as a framework for analysis. The research brings to light the following conclusions: 1) Nonverbal communication is predominantly conveyed through facial expressions, eye contact, tone of voice, gestures, and posture; 2) Nonverbal communication not only reflects an individual's cognitive and emotional states but also enables a deeper understanding of others' genuine emotions, making communication more precise and vivid. This study aims to enhance people's ability to comprehend the speaker's thoughts and intentions, as well as effectively express their ideas during intercultural communication. By doing so, communication efficiency can be improved, and the goals of intercultural communication can be achieved.