Question

What is the difference between a physical and a semantic barrier to communication? Provide an example of a physical barrier and a semantic barrier.

Answer 1

Q: What is the difference between a physical and a semantic barrier to communication? Provide an example of a physical barrier and a semantic barrier.

Communication Barrier

Communication Barrier is the combination of two words, first communication which means the flow of information from the sender to the receiver, and the second barrier means the obstacle. So combining these words, we understand that communication is the obstacle in the flow of information. In other words, we can say that anything which disturbs or stops the flow of information from one medium to another medium is the barrier of communication.

Difference between a Physical and a Semantic barrier to communication

Basis	Physical Barrier	Semantic Barrier
Meaning	This Barrier arises due to the surroundings and environment. Like Sound of Machines, etc.	This Barrier arises due to the misunderstanding of Words. Like Price and Prize having almost similar pronunciation, etc.
Elements	Sounds of Machine, Space per receiver, Dim Light, etc.	Difficult Language, High-level vocabulary, etc.
Outcomes	The receiver feels Difficulty while focusing on the sender's message.	It creates a Misunderstanding of message and pressures on the receiver's mind.
Importance	Physical Environment is very important for the communication process. It help to understand the layout and location for the delivery of the message.	Words and language are very much important for communication. The sender should understand the level of the audience and then deliver favorable language.

Example of a physical barrier and a semantic barrier.

Physical Barrier	Boss is delivering the information about business plans and objectives but due to a lot of crowds and noise at the meeting hall. It becomes difficult for every employee to understand the message carefully.
Semantic Barrier.	In Business Training, Trainer is using difficult words and a high level of vocabulary that leads to trainees misunderstanding the trainer's information.

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