Communication

Meaning

To communicate an idea or point clearly so that others understand it — to get your message across effectively.

Example

"She's incredibly knowledgeable, but she struggles to put her ideas across in a way that non-experts can follow."

Conversation questions

• What's the hardest type of idea for you to put across to others?
• What do you do when someone just isn't getting the point you're trying to put across?

Meaning

To express your opinion publicly and directly, especially when others are staying silent or when it's difficult to do so.

Example

"Nobody wanted to speak out against the decision, even though everyone in the room disagreed with it."

Conversation questions

• Is it easy for you to speak out when you disagree with something? What holds people back?
• Can you think of a situation where speaking out made a real difference?

Meaning

To discuss something step by step with someone — often to fully understand it or to work toward a resolution.

Example

"Let's talk through the options before we commit to anything — I don't want to rush this decision."

Conversation questions

• Do you prefer to talk things through with others, or do you process alone first?
• What kinds of problems benefit most from being talked through?

Meaning

To interpret something as having a deeper meaning — often reading more significance into it than was actually intended.

Example

"I wouldn't read too much into his short reply — he's probably just busy, not upset."

Conversation questions

• Are you someone who tends to read into things? When has it been right or wrong?
• What's the difference between reading into something and picking up on a genuine signal?

Meaning

To dismiss or ignore someone's comment, concern, or idea in a casual or dismissive way — without really engaging with it.

Example

"She raised a valid concern in the meeting and her manager just brushed it off without any explanation."

Conversation questions

• Have you ever had your ideas or concerns brushed off? How did you handle it?
• When is it okay to brush something off, and when does it become a real problem?

Meaning

To notice or become aware of something subtle — a mood, a signal, a tone, or an unspoken implication.

Example

"A good communicator picks up on the unspoken tension in a room and adjusts their approach accordingly."

Conversation questions

• Are you good at picking up on how people are feeling? What signals do you notice?
• What's something you recently picked up on that others around you seemed to miss?