Abstract：Body language is widely used in both verbal and non-verbal communication. With the increasing communication between China and the western countries, body language plays an important role. However, in different cultural backgrounds, body language may have different meanings. This paper discusses the significance of body language in the intercultural communication and analyses the similarities and differences of its indifferent cultural backgrounds between china and the West. Only if we pay attention to it can we achieve effective intercultural communication. 

Key words: body language; comparison between Chinese and western; communication

CONTENTS

ABSTRACT

中文摘要

1. Introduction-1

2. Conception of Body Language-1

2.1 Definition of Body Language-1

2.2 The Type of Body Language-2

3.Analysis on Body Language between Chinese and Westerners-2

3.1The Differences Between Chinese and Westerners in Body Language-2

3.1.1 The Differences in Gestures-2

3.1.2 The Differences in Postures-3

3.1.3The Differences in Eye Contact-4

3.1.4 The Differences in Facial Expression-5

3.2 Reasons for the Differences in Body Language-6

3.2.1 Influence of religious factors-6

3.2.2 Influence of different values-7

4.Suggestions on Improving and Using Body Language in Intercultural Communication-7

5. Conclusion-8

Bibliography-9

Acknowledgements-.10