The Interaction of Verbal and Nonverbal Codes in Linguistic Discourse: A Pragmatic Approach

Abstract

This paper investigates the interrelation between verbal and nonverbal codes in linguistic discourse from a pragmatic perspective. It focuses on how nonverbal elements—gestures, facial expressions, posture, and prosodic features—interact with verbal language to express meaning, manage discourse, and convey speaker intention. The study emphasizes that nonverbal communication is not supplementary to verbal speech but operates as an integrated semiotic system within pragmatic interaction. The findings reveal that the interplay between verbal and nonverbal codes ensures the coherence, expressiveness, and contextual accuracy of discourse.