Non-verbal Communication
Visual
Communication does not only utilize sounds to express meaning, but a variety
of additional techniques such as gestures or facial expressions. Their function is to capture the attention of the interlocutor and then focus it on a particular object or event. Gestures and bodily movements may vary across languages and are often
dependent on the topic to be communicated.
Tactile
Tactile communication
involves the use of touch to convey messages and emotions between individuals. This form of non-verbal communication can express support, affection, discomfort, or other sentiments, depending on the context and nature of the contact, such as a handshake,
hug, or pat on the back. One special way of using the tactile (touch) communication channel is realized by Braille, the "writing" system for the blind.Gustatory
Even though the gustatory (taste) communication mode is marginal in comparison
with the other modes, one can communicate via taste, e.g. offering a distasteful meal or a salty lemonade.
Olfactory
The olfactory (smell) communication mode is used relatively rarely. Yet,
it is possible to communicate via smell, for example, one can use the smell of flowers to create a certain mood.