Højkontekst

Højkontekst refers to a communication style where much of the meaning is conveyed through context rather than explicit verbalization. This includes nonverbal cues like body language, tone of voice, shared history, and the physical setting. In højkontekst cultures, relationships and group harmony are highly valued, and directness can be seen as impolite or confrontational. Meaning is often implicit, and individuals are expected to understand unspoken messages and nuances. For example, a simple "yes" might not always mean agreement, but rather a desire to avoid conflict. Extensive background knowledge and shared cultural understanding are crucial for effective communication in these settings. Nonverbal cues play a significant role, and interpreting them accurately is essential to grasp the full message. This is in contrast to lavkontekst communication, where messages are expected to be explicit, direct, and unambiguous, with less reliance on surrounding circumstances to convey meaning.