Communication (Meaning, Concept and Process)
Communication is a dynamic process that takes place around us all the time. In fact we spend
70% of our time receiving and sending messages.
The meaning:
The origin of the word “communication” is “communicare” or “communis” which means “to
impart”, “to participate”, “to share” or “to make common.” The sense of sharing is inherent in
the very origin and meaning of “communication.”
Definitions:
1. Keith Davis: Communication is a process of passing information and understanding from
one person to another.
2. John Adair: Communication is essentially the ability of one person to make contact with
another and make himself or herself understood.
3. William Newman and Charles Summer: Communication is an exchange of ideas, facts,
opinions or emotions of two or more persons.
4. Louis Allen: Communication is a bridge of meaning. It involves a systematic and
continuous process of telling, listening and understanding.
5. Peter Little: Communication is a process by which information is transmitted between
individuals and / or organizations so that an understanding response results.
6. Murphy, Hildebrandt, Thomas: Communication is a process of transmitting and receiving
verbal and non-verbal messages. It is considered effective when it achieves the desired
response or reaction from the receiver.
The process of communication:
Communication is a two-way process involving the following elements: a sender, a message, a
medium, a channel, a receiver, a response and feedback. However, it is not sufficient to have
just all these elements; there should be cooperation and understanding between the two parties
involved. It is important to have a common frame of reference or context for successful and
meaningful communication, e.g. a common language or common interpretation of a gesture.
Essentially communication involves the sender or the communicator and the receiver. Both
should necessarily share a mutually accepted code e.g. a common language. The context in
