Final answer:
A transition is a verbal or nonverbal signal that indicates a speaker is moving from one idea to another, helping to maintain the flow of speech or writing and clarify the connection between ideas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term we use for a verbal or nonverbal signal indicating the speaker is transitioning from one idea to another is transition. Transitions are akin to signpost language, serving as markers that guide the listener or reader through the progression of ideas. They are crucial for maintaining the flow of a speech or piece of writing. Transitions can take various forms such as sequential words like "firstly" or "next," or phrases signaling a contrast like "however" or "on the other hand."
They can be concrete, marking the passage of time or changing the setting, or they can be more abstract, such as shifts in tone or point of view. Effective use of transitions ensures that narrative events are cohesive and clearly connected, making the content more accessible and comprehensible to the audience. When drafting any form of communication, from an essay to a speech, considering how to incorporate transitions will help the reader or listener understand the relationships between the ideas presented.