According to Hall, what plays a significant role in explaining many communication differences?

The significance of context in explaining communication differences, as proposed by Edward T. Hall, is rooted in his theory of high-context and low-context cultures. In high-context cultures, communication relies heavily on the surrounding context, such as social relationships and non-verbal cues, meaning that much of the message is inferred rather than explicitly stated. Conversely, in low-context cultures, communication is direct and relies more on the literal meaning of words.

Context encompasses various elements, including the situational environment, cultural background, and interpersonal relationships among communicators. This understanding is crucial because it highlights how cultural norms and expectations shape individuals' communication styles. As people from different cultural backgrounds interact, their varied reliance on context can lead to misunderstandings or misinterpretations.

In contrast, while language structure, non-verbal cues, and technology use certainly influence communication, Hall specifically emphasized the role of context as a critical factor in understanding how and why communication differs across cultures. Hence, recognizing context is essential for effective communication and negotiation in international business settings.