In which type of societies are messages often explicit?

Messages are often explicit in low-context societies because communication in these environments tends to be straightforward, direct, and relies heavily on clear verbal expressions. In such cultures, individuals expect and use detailed verbal communication to convey meanings and intentions without much need for background context. This clarity reduces the chances of misunderstanding, as most of the information is carried by the words themselves.

In low-context societies, individuals may prioritize task completion and explicit agreement, which is particularly important in business dealings and negotiations. Such societies often value transparency and precision, making it crucial for messages to be clearly articulated and understood in their full terms.

This contrasts with high-context societies, where much of the communication relies on implicit understanding and shared experiences. In high-context environments, communication may involve more non-verbal cues and less direct word usage, as context plays a significant role in interpreting the message. Moderate-context societies may feature a blend of both communication styles but do not emphasize explicit messaging to the extent seen in low-context cultures. Collective societies may focus on group goals and relationships, which can influence how messages are conveyed and understood, but this does not directly pertain to the explicitness of messages in communication.