ENGLISH AND UKRAINIAN NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION: CONTRASTIVE ASPECT
Authors: L. M. Barlit; S. Ostapenko; H. Udovichenko
Year: 2024

Objective. The objective of the article is to identify and compare the features of non-verbal elements in English and Ukrainian communication. Methods. The main scientific results are obtained applying a set of general scientific and special research methods, namely: analysis and synthesis of scientific literature on the problems of non-verbal communication; theoretical generalisation and specification; comparative method and methods of linguistic research. Results. Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in the process of communication. It can be intentional or unintentional, is primary, always carried out with the help of sensory systems, such as hearing, sight; non-verbal communication is ambiguous and difficult to break down into separate components due to the use of various non-verbal elements: body movements or facial expressions. Non-verbal communication performs various functions: negation, regulation (control), emphasis, substitution and supplementation. Non-verbal communication includes kinesics, proxemics, oculomics, paralinguistics, haptics, chronemics, head movements and postures, and personal presentation. A comparative analysis of the non-verbal elements of English and Ukrainian shows that English communication is more restrained and conservative in terms of facial expressions, while Ukrainian is more expressive and emotional. The British prefer their own space, so they show restraint when communicating, while Ukrainians are used to getting quite close to the interlocutor. The British are also quite reserved when it comes to eye contact, while for Ukrainians it is quite important to understand certain emotions and moods. In paralinguistics, it is determined that people in Britain are used to speaking quite calmly, almost without emotion, while in Ukraine they speak loudly, very emotionally. In terms of chronemics, people in the UK are organised, very punctual and focused in their use of time, while Ukrainians are less focused on accuracy, so they may not take it as seriously. In terms of head movements and postures, it is found that the British often hold their heads straight because they are careful and polite in their expressions, while people in Ukraine can move their heads quite expressively. British postures are refined and relaxed. People in the UK prefer natural, more conservative clothing, so comfort is the main thing for them. In Ukraine, people spend a lot of time trying to dress well or present themselves in the best possible way. 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