Abstract:  This thesis mainly introduces types of some body language that are used frequently and easy to misunderstand by speakers in cross-cultural communication. This thesis aims to let students of English major or some English learners learn about some different meanings of body language in different countries and the impact and importance of body language in cross-cultural communication. The article illustrates the function of body language and contrasts different kinds of body language and uses some cases to prove the differences of body language and the impact caused by body language in cross-cultural communication, so that the communicators can communicate with foreigners successfully. 

Key words: body language; differences of cultures; cross-cultural communication；communication successfully

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction1

2. Literature Review and Theoretical Framework .1

3. The Function of Body Language in Cross-Cultural Communication ... 2

3.1 Conveying more Information than Language

3.2 Reflecting the Real Thoughts of Speakers

3.3 Responding Other Person Effectively

4. Comparison of Different Meanings of the Same Body Language in Different Cultures 3

4.1 Facial Expressions

   4.1.1 Smiling 

   4.1.2 Eye Contacting

4.2 Head Actions

   4.2.1 Nodding and Shaking Head

   4.2.2 Heads up

4.3 Sign Gesture

   4.3.1 “OK” Gesture

   4.3.2 Holding up Thumb

   4.3.3 “V” Gesture

4.4 Body Distance

5. Comparison of Some Actions between Chinese and English7

  5.1 The Different Meanings of the Same Action

  5.2 The Same Meaning of Different Actions

  5.3 Some Actions just in America

  5.4 Some Actions just in China

6. The Impact of Body Language in Cross-Cultural Communication8

  5.1 Good Impact

  5.2 Bad Impact

7. Conclusion 10

Bibliography. 11

Acknowledgements.. 12