Final answer:
People use verbal and nonverbal symbols in social interaction, which includes language, gestures, and body language. These symbols can convey different meanings across different cultures and are essential in interpreting social interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
People indeed use verbal and nonverbal symbols in social interaction. Verbal communication involves speaking, while nonverbal communication can include gestures, facial expressions, and body language. Culture deeply influences both forms of communication. Universal gestures, like smiles, can signify joy, but other symbols, like a thumbs-up, can have differing meanings depending on the cultural context. In the U.S., it's positive reinforcement, but in Russia and Australia, it is considered an offensive curse.
Similarly, a wave of a hand can convey a multitude of messages such as "hello," "goodbye," or "no thank you," each depending on how it is performed and to whom it is directed. The understanding of nonverbal cues often relies on shared cultural norms and interpersonal knowledge. These silent symbols can help us determine the nature of a social interaction from afar. For instance, body language and facial expressions might indicate a serious conversation or a light-hearted chat. Therefore, both verbal and nonverbal ways of communication play a crucial role in how we interact and understand each other within our societies.