What does low context refer to in communication?

Low context communication refers to a style where information is conveyed explicitly through words rather than relying on contextual or non-verbal cues. In low context cultures, the emphasis is on clear, direct communication where the spoken or written message holds most of the meaning. This means that people expect information to be clearly articulated and that assumptions based on shared experiences or cultural references are minimized.

In this context, the importance of spoken languages is highlighted, as clarity and substance in communication take precedence over subtleties or cues that might be inferred in more high context settings. The notion that information is "told" rather than "described" aligns with the expectation in low context communication for precise and straightforward messaging.