📖 Reading: Communication Across Cultures
When working with international colleagues, understanding their communication style is key. Anthropologist Edward T. Hall coined the terms **"high-context"** and **"low-context"** cultures to describe this difference. In a high-context culture, like Japan or China, much of the communication is implicit—meaning is conveyed through non-verbal cues, shared history, and the surrounding context. A simple "yes" might not mean agreement, and a direct "no" is often avoided to preserve harmony. Therefore, it's crucial to read between the lines and pay attention to body language.
In contrast, a low-context culture, like Germany or the United States, relies on explicit communication. Information is conveyed primarily through direct language. Messages are clear, detailed, and to the point. What you say is what you mean. In these settings, being too indirect can be seen as evasive or confusing. As a business professional, adapting your style is essential for building trust and avoiding misinterpretations. For example, a project manager from a low-context culture might provide a detailed written plan, while their counterpart from a high-context culture might prefer a verbal discussion to build consensus.
Quiz: Reading Check
According to the text, in which type of culture is a simple "yes" less likely to mean "agreement"?
⚖️ True or False?
1. A high-context culture relies heavily on clear, explicit written communication.
🔗 Match the Idiom to its Meaning
Idioms
Meaning
💬 Conversation: Fill in the Gaps
Click a word from the bank and then click a gap. **To deselect a word, click the filled gap to return it.**
Alex (Low-Context): Okay, so let's finalize the ... before we leave the room. I need everything laid out clearly.
Mei (High-Context): I hear you, Alex. However, the true path forward will be decided ... after we've had more time to build trust. My culture views a very direct approach as too harsh.
Alex: I see. I don't want any ..., so I prefer clarity. But I respect your approach.
Mei: Thank you. I offer my ... if my indirectness caused any confusion. Once we reach a mutual ..., you will see faster results.
📝 Vocabulary: Complete the Sentences
Place the correct word in each blank. **To deselect a word, click the filled gap to return it.**
1. In high-context cultures, meaning is often conveyed through ... like body language and silence.
2. Communication that is not directly stated, but understood through context, is called ... communication.
3. Low-context communicators prefer ... language where every detail is clearly stated.
4. Being too indirect in a low-context setting might be interpreted as being ... or avoiding the topic.
5. A primary goal in many high-context interactions is maintaining social ..., often by avoiding confrontation.