Multilingual Approach in the Nonveral Interaction Model (Sociolinguistic Study)
Udjang Pairin M. Basir
Abstract
In multilingual societies, the language system as a communication tool is so complex. In the broader context the
communication process in society is not only in the form of verbal but also nonverbal which is more abstract and
symbolic value. Nonverbal languages deal with body cues, such as hand gestures, facial expressions, smiles, hand
waves, and others are called kinesics. However, there are also nonverbal languages in other forms, namely symbols,
colors and sounds. Deals with symbols, such as eagle (state symbol), star (divinity), symbol of rank (police and army);
red (bravery), white (holy), black (sad, mourning), blue (love); kentongan (sound of instrument hit as a sign of time and
danger), syringe sound (ask for road), whistle sound (warning or morse language), etc. Which the meaning requires a
cultural understanding. Kinesics itself includes a paralinguistic study which meaning involves a relatively loose aspect
of culture, so it is often cause misinterpretation, but not so in symbolic language. The symbol system of meaning is
more certain. As part of cultural element, the understanding process of symbols language is more directed references
and relatively inconvenience to the whole community supporters.
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