Final answer:
C. our body language.
The majority of communication, specifically 55% of the message, is conveyed through body language, including gestures, posture, and facial expressions, rather than just verbal content or tone of voice.
Step-by-step explanation:
When we communicate, 55% of the message comes across through our body language. This encompasses facets such as gestures, facial expressions, posture, and other non-verbal cues that are often subconsciously interpreted. Body language is a key component of non-verbal communication and can be crucial in conveying emotions and intentions beyond what is verbally expressed.
Effective communication is not just about the words we use (verbal content), but also the tone of voice used, and most significantly, the non-verbal signals we send, such as body language. Research indicates our sensitivity to the emotional content conveyed via body language, which can be crucial in understanding the complete message being communicated.
Therefore, the answer to the question is C. our body language, which aligns with research suggesting that a significant portion of the communication process is attributable to non-verbal cues, particularly those communicated through body language.