non-verbally
non-verbally — adverb
1. through actions, facial expressions, gestures, or signals instead of spoken or w
through actions, facial expressions, gestures, or signals instead of spoken or written words — describing how meaning is conveyed without language.
The two musicians communicated non-verbally during the live performance, using only eye contact and nods.
verb + non-verbally (communicated non-verbally)
Sana expressed her approval non-verbally by giving a warm smile and a thumbs-up.
In Japan, people often convey gratitude non-verbally through a bow rather than saying thank you.
Caio nodded non-verbally to show he understood the teacher's question.
- silently
focuses on absence of sound, not necessarily absence of words
- wordlessly
more literary; emphasises zero spoken language
- in silence
a phrase that describes a quiet manner, not necessarily communication without words
- verbally
the direct opposite — using spoken or written words
文法句型
verb + non-verbally
用法筆記
Commonly paired with verbs of communication such as communicate, express, convey, signal, and indicate. The adverb form is far more frequent than the adjective in everyday contexts.
常見錯誤
non-verbally — adjective
1. relating to communication or expression that does not involve spoken or written
relating to communication or expression that does not involve spoken or written language, such as gestures, facial expressions, or body language.
The baby's non-verbal cues, like reaching out her arms, showed she wanted to be held.
non-verbal + noun (non-verbal cues)
Yumi knew her friend was upset from non-verbal signals like crossed arms.
Eye contact and posture are non-verbal signals that matter in job interviews.
Talia's smile was a warm non-verbal greeting that put everyone at ease.
- verbal
involving the use of words
文法句型
non-verbal + noun
be + non-verbal
用法筆記
This sense describes the medium of expression, not a person's ability. Distinguish from sense 2: a non-verbal signal is a signal without words (sense 1), but a non-verbal patient cannot speak at all (sense 2).
常見錯誤
2. describes a person who is unable to speak, either temporarily because of a medic
describes a person who is unable to speak, either temporarily because of a medical condition or permanently due to a developmental or physical disability.
After the stroke, the man was non-verbal and used a tablet to communicate.
temporary condition: medical context
The school provided a picture-exchange system for non-verbal students who could not speak aloud.
Felix helps non-verbal children learn sign language at his therapy clinic.
Andrew's grandmother became non-verbal after the surgery and used a picture board.
- speechless
usually temporary (shock, surprise); not a medical term
- mute
stronger, and may be considered outdated or offensive in some contexts
- voiceless
less clinical; can also mean having no say in a situation
- verbal
able to speak and use language
文法句型
non-verbal + noun (person)
be + non-verbal (person)
用法筆記
This sense describes a person's capacity, not a choice. A non-verbal child does not temporarily decide to be quiet — they have a sustained inability to produce spoken language. Avoid using this sense for people who are simply choosing not to speak.