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Questions and Answers
What are the three main reasons for receiving ambiguous messages?
What are the three main reasons for receiving ambiguous messages?
Define 'Expression/Delivery' (HOW IT'S SAID) in communication.
Define 'Expression/Delivery' (HOW IT'S SAID) in communication.
Expression/Delivery in communication refers to the form and clarity of the message, including word choice, structure, and absence of nonverbal cues.
Too much information can lead to key details being ________ or misunderstood.
Too much information can lead to key details being ________ or misunderstood.
overlooked
Cultural background has no influence on how messages are perceived and understood.
Cultural background has no influence on how messages are perceived and understood.
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Match the following reasons for receiving ambiguous messages with their examples:
Match the following reasons for receiving ambiguous messages with their examples:
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Study Notes
Ambiguous Messages
- Three main reasons for ambiguous messages: Information/Content (WHAT is said), Expression/Delivery (HOW it's said), and Perception/Interpretation (WHO is involved)
Information/Content (WHAT is said)
- Lack of background knowledge can lead to misunderstandings
- Example: Unfamiliarity with project management terminology ("critical path")
- Insufficient context can cause ambiguity
- Example: Vague message about preparing documents for a meeting without specifying which documents or meeting
- Too much information can lead to key details being overlooked
- Example: Long email with multiple important announcements
- Inaccurate information can undermine trust and clarity
- Example: Overly optimistic project updates that don't align with actual progress
Expression/Delivery (HOW it's said)
- Word choice:
- Technical jargon and abbreviations can create barriers
- Example: "ECC compliant" and "Q3" without explanation
- Vague language can leave too much to interpretation
- Example: "We'll address the budget issues soon" without a specific timeframe
- Technical jargon and abbreviations can create barriers
- Poor formatting and grammar can confuse the reader
- Example: Poorly structured email with multiple topics and grammar mistakes
- Nonverbal omissions can lead to misunderstandings
- Example: Text message without tone indicators, leading to ambiguity ("Great job on that presentation...")
Perception/Interpretation (WHO is involved)
- Past knowledge and experiences can influence understanding
- Example: Assuming negative news based on past experiences with Project Y
- Cultural differences can affect message interpretation
- Example: Directness being seen as disrespectful in some cultures
- Personal biases and assumptions can lead to skewed interpretations
- Example: Assuming a meeting is routine when it's actually critical
- Emotional state can affect message interpretation
- Example: Interpreting neutral feedback as criticism due to anxiety or stress
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Description
Learn about the common reasons behind ambiguous messages, including information and expression. Understand how to improve communication clarity and avoid misunderstandings.
