What term refers to the communication about communication?

The term that refers to the communication about communication is metacommunications. This concept encompasses the ways in which individuals convey feelings, intentions, and contextual meanings about their ongoing communication. For example, when someone says, "I didn't mean to offend you," they are not only conveying their feelings about a previous statement but also commenting on the nature of the communication itself—indicating that there may have been a misunderstanding.

Metacommunication is crucial because it influences how messages are interpreted and understood in interpersonal interactions. It serves to clarify intentions, resolve misunderstandings, and provide feedback on the ongoing communication process. This level of discourse enables individuals to navigate complex social dynamics and enhances relational interactions by addressing the subtext or emotional undertones embedded in their exchanges.

The other terms, while related to communication, do not encapsulate this idea. Non-verbal communication pertains to messages conveyed without words, such as body language and facial expressions. Interpersonal communication focuses on direct interactions between people, often emphasizing verbal exchanges without the meta-level observation. Abstract communication typically refers to discussions of ideas that lack concrete examples or context, which diverges from the precise function of metacommunication.