Spanish word

kinésica

Pronunciation

IPA/kiˈnesika/

Meaning

  • feminine nounbody language

Example

Observa la kinésica para entender cómo se siente la otra persona.

Observe the body language to understand how the other person feels.

Illustration for kinésica (body language)

More examples

¿Puedes leer la kinésica cuando hablas con clientes?

Can you read the body language when you talk to clients?

Core concept

Person's gestures, facial expressions, and posture.

Common phrases

  • la kinésica facial

    facial nonverbal behavior

  • práctica de kinésica

    practice of nonverbal communication

Similar words

lenguaje corporal: Everyday body movements and posture that show feelings or attitude.
gesto: A single hand, facial, or small bodily movement that conveys meaning or feeling.
comunicación no verbal: Communication without words using gestures, facial expression, posture, or vocal tone.
expresión corporal: Whole-body movement and posture that express emotion or communicative intent.

Definition in Spanish

Conjunto de movimientos y gestos del cuerpo que sirven para comunicar emociones, actitudes o intenciones sin usar palabras.

Word origin

From Greek kinesis 'movement' plus the suffix -ica, the word names movement-related behavior used in Spanish to describe nonverbal communication.

Usage tips

  • The word is used as a technical term in psychology and communication studies, while everyday speakers often prefer gesto or lenguaje corporal.

Other meanings

  • kinesicsnoun

Opposites

  • comunicación verbalverbal communicationnoun

Related words

  • kinésicokinesicadjective

Word lists with this word