Which of the following best describes nonverbal communication?

Nonverbal communication encompasses a wide variety of behaviors and signals that convey information without the use of words. This includes gestures, body language, facial expressions, eye contact, and even tone of voice. The key aspect of nonverbal communication is that it often leaves the interpretation open to the receiver, as these nonverbal cues can be subjective and may vary based on cultural context and individual perception.

For instance, a thumbs-up gesture may indicate approval in one culture but may have a different meaning in another. The ambiguity in interpretation is a significant component of nonverbal communication, making option B the best description. It emphasizes that gestures and actions are powerful in conveying messages and emotions, regardless of the explicit meaning intended by the sender.

Other choices, such as focusing solely on verbal responses, written communication, or formal document styles, do not capture the essence of nonverbal communication, which is fundamentally about conveying messages without spoken or written words.