Paralanguage is a type of non-verbal communication that conveys meaning through vocal but non-verbal cues. It is a way of expressing emotion, attitude, politeness, and intentions. Paralanguage includes behaviors such as pitch, pace, loudness, pauses, and inflections of speech, as well as vocal “fillers” such as “um,” “like,” and “you know.”

The following are examples of paralanguage:

• Vocal Pitch – the high and low notes of a person’s voice that can be used to express emotion.
• Vocal Pace – the speed at which a person speaks.
• Loudness – how loud or soft a person speaks.
• Pauses – pausing between words or phrases for emphasis.
• Inflection – stressing certain words or syllables to convey emotion.

The following are not examples of paralanguage:

• Gestures – the use of body movements to communicate a message.
• Facial Expressions – the use of facial expressions to communicate a message.
• Eye Contact – looking directly into another person’s eyes to convey a message.
• Sneezing – the ejecting of air suddenly and forcibly from the nose and mouth.
• Yawning – an involuntary action of opening the mouth wide and inhaling deeply.
• Coughing – an abrupt, explosive expulsion of air from the lungs.
• Snoring – the sound of air being forced through the mouth and nose during sleep.

Paralanguage is an important part of communication and understanding of the speaker’s intent. It is important to pay attention to the vocal cues of the speaker and to take into account other non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, posture, and hand gestures.