Which of the following describes nonverbal cues?

Nonverbal cues are essential components of communication and encompass a wide range of nonverbal behaviors that convey meaning. The correct choice highlights that eye contact, gestures, and physical proximity are all forms of nonverbal communication. These elements can express emotions, attitudes, and reactions without the need for spoken language.

For instance, eye contact can indicate attentiveness or interest, gestures can emphasize or complement spoken words, and the physical distance between people can convey levels of intimacy or formality. Understanding nonverbal cues is crucial in all forms of communication, as they often provide context that can enhance or even contradict verbal messages.

In contrast, spoken words in a conversation focus solely on the verbal aspect of communication and do not encompass the rich layers of meaning conveyed through nonverbal signals. Formal rules established in conversation refer to social protocols that govern interactions but do not capture the essence of nonverbal communication itself. Written documents outlining communication etiquette pertain to guidelines for effective verbal communication rather than the nonverbal signals that accompany or substitute for it. Thus, the correct choice accurately encompasses the breadth of nonverbal communication.