Final answer:
Overt statements are obvious and direct, whereas covert statements are concealed and require interpretation. Overt communication is clear and preferred in settings that value transparency, while covert communication is subtle and often used strategically.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference Between Overt and Covert Statements
The key difference between overt and covert statements lies in the directness and transparency with which a message is communicated. Overt statements are clear, direct, and open. They leave little to no room for interpretation because they explicitly state the intended message or viewpoint. For instance, a political commentator who openly shares their ideological stance is making overt statements. By contrast, covert statements are hidden, indirect, and much less obvious. Such statements often require the receiver to read between the lines or understand the context to grasp the full meaning. An example of covert communication is when a magazine presents a one-sided view on a political issue without acknowledging the slant in its coverage.
Overall, overt communication is preferred in many environments, such as the workplace, because it is explicit and straightforward. However, it is often necessary to maintain a balance between being clear and being diplomatic. On the other hand, covert communication can sometimes be used to convey messages in a more subtle or strategic way, particularly if the communicator wishes to influence the receiver without appearing biased or confrontational.