Body language isn't a language

Body language isn't a language as such. There are few examples of body language that have specific meanings like words do. The only exception are ‘emblems' and include signs such as waving or V signs. And even the meaning of this type of body language can change depending on the situation or the culture of the user.

Watch the context

When trying to interpret body language, the context is everything. The meaning of body language could depend on:
- Your relationship with the other person including the degree of dominance, submission or even attraction,
- What is being said at the time,
- The reason for the interaction such as business or leisure,
- The setting of the interaction.

So, a person with their arms folded over their chest could be communicating anything from "I'm cold" to "I feel defensive” to "I have sore arms” all depending on the situation.

Cultural differences

When trying to interpret body language, be aware of cultural differences. For example, in some cultures avoiding eye contact is a sign of shiftiness or dishonesty but in other cultures it is a sign of respect.

The rule of threes

Non verbal behaviour tends to occur in sequences. So if you see three examples of body language that point to the same conclusion, then you can be more sure of your interpretation.

Right reading, incorrect inference?

Even if you interpret someone's body language correctly, there is no guarantee you have the inference right. For example, if someone's body language suggests they are angry, it doesn't mean they are angry with you.