Final answer:
Communication is the way people exchange information using language and symbols like words, gestures, and signs, both verbal and non-verbal. It includes a wide array of methods and systems to share thoughts, feelings, and ideas, serving as a fundamental aspect of human interaction and cultural transmission.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ability to communicate thoughts, feelings, and ideas through words, gestures, sign systems, assistive devices, and so on is commonly referred to as communication. Communication is the process through which we convey information and express ourselves to others. Humans use various forms of language and other symbols to connect and share information, whether verbally, non-verbally, or through written means. Language is a system of arbitrary symbols called words that are represented by vocal sounds and often by written marks. This complex system allows for messages to be communicated without definiteness in terms of content, topic, or type, making it a uniquely versatile means of human interaction.
Communication has evolved from basic gestural interactions to more specific forms aided by the development of language, which replaced sounds and gestures to become the primary mode of human interaction. It facilitates not just the exchange of information, but also the expression of emotions, the formulation of thoughts, and the establishment of social relationships. Through language and symbols, people understand their world by conveying recognizable meanings that are shared by societies. These symbols range from letters and words to gestures and facial expressions. Understanding this rich tapestry of signs is essential for communication across different cultures and social contexts.