Edward Hall’s (1976) theory of high- and low-context communication

Alongside Hofstede’s model, Edward Hall’s (1976) theory of high- and low-context communication helps explain how people from different cultures share meaning. In high-context cultures, much is communicated through body language, tone, and shared understanding, while in low-context cultures, people prefer clear, direct, and detailed communication. In high-context cultures, communication relies heavily on nonverbal cues, shared experiences, and the social context in which the message is conveyed. People from these cultures often expect the listener to "read between the lines" and understand meaning through nonverbal cues, such as gestures, tone of voice, or silence, rather than through direct words. This style of communication is typical in many Asian countries (e.g., Japan, China, Korea), where maintaining harmony and showing respect are deeply valued, and in several African nations, where communal values and interpersonal relationships are emphasized. 

In contrast, low-context cultures prioritize clear, direct, and explicit communication. Individuals are expected to convey their meaning directly, and messages are primarily communicated through words rather than body language or social context. This approach is typical of countries such as the United States, Germany, and the Netherlands, where personal autonomy and clarity are cultural priorities.

However, it's important to recognize that no culture is entirely high or low context; rather, all societies incorporate elements of both, depending on the situation. Even in a predominantly low-context culture like the Netherlands, communication among longtime friends may become more high-context. In these settings, shared history and emotional bonds reduce the need for explicit language, and much is understood implicitly.