Basic Differences Between High and Low Context Cultures

Criteria HIGH-CONTEXT LOW CONTEXT

CULTURE CULTURE
1. Relationships build slowly Relationships begin and
Association and depend on trust. end quickly.
Preference to long term Temporary personal
relationships. relationships.
Values such as honor and Personal relationships not
respect are more considered that much;
important than business; ideas and people are
adjourn power and assumed as equals.
position.
Values family and group Individualism is valued.
authority.
2. Non-verbal elements Non-verbal elements are
Interaction such as voice, tone, not significant.
gestures, facial Verbal messages as well
expression and eye as exchange of facts,
movement are significant. ideas and opinions are
observable.
Indirect communication. Direct and specific
communication.
Fewer words, more on High value on words
nonverbal cues. rather than nonverbal
clues.
Words are simple and Structured messages with
ambiguous. technical details.
3. Space is communal. Space is
Territoriality Communicators form a compartmentalized.
closely knit to connect Privacy is important so
within a territory. people stand farther
apart.
4. Everything has its own Time is a commodity.
Temporality time. Gradual change One’s time is one’s own.
occurs.
Appointments are Emphasis on
generally considered appointments on time,
flexible. management of
schedules, and
punctuality are given high
preference.
5. Learning Multiple sources of One source of information
information are used. is used.
Thinking proceeds from Thinking begins with
general to specific. specific message to
general.
Private networks are used Information is made
to obtain information. accessible readily, shared
with others.