Which of the following best describes nonverbal communication?

Nonverbal communication is best described as communication that occurs without words. This encompasses a wide range of signals and cues that convey messages, such as facial expressions, body language, gestures, posture, eye contact, and even tone of voice. These nonverbal elements play a crucial role in how we interpret messages, as they often provide context and emotional nuance that words alone may lack. Understanding nonverbal communication is essential, as it can greatly enhance or alter the meaning of verbal messages and is an integral part of effective interpersonal communication.

The other options do not accurately characterize nonverbal communication. Written text refers specifically to written language and does not encompass the various forms of nonverbal cues. Communication guided by technology can include a mix of verbal and nonverbal elements but does not define the essence of nonverbal communication itself. Finally, formal structure is often associated with verbal communication styles and formats, rather than the spontaneous and instinctive nature of nonverbal interactions.