How Many Different Types of Communication Are There?

Walter B. McKenzie/Stone/Getty Images

There are four main types of communication: written, verbal, nonverbal and visual. Written communication includes email, signs, letters, magazines, books and anything else transcribed into typed or handwritten words. Verbal communication is auditory, while nonverbal communication is body language and gestures.

Visual communication involves a visual display, such as pictures, illustrations, charts, graphs, topography, television and films. Types of verbal communication include speaking, music, sounds and language. It is theorized that language developed from sounds and gestures, or nonverbal communication. Other forms of nonverbal communication include signs, eye contact, sign language, sculpture, movement, dancing, facial expressions, body posture and physical contact

ADVERTISEMENT