Interpreting the same written message in different ways is an example of:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Semantic barrier
Option (1) Semantic barrier — Correct. Semantic barriers are problems with the meaning of words. They arise from wrong words, faulty translations and different interpretations. When the same written message is understood in different ways, the problem is in its meaning. So it is a semantic barrier.
Option (2) Organisational barrier — Incorrect. These come from the organisation’s structure, rules and levels of authority, not from the meaning of words.
Option (3) Time barrier — Incorrect. There is no group of barriers called “time barrier”.
Option (4) Personal barrier — Incorrect. These come from the people involved, for example a superior’s fear that his authority will be challenged.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Barriers to Communication … The barriers to communication in the organisations can be broadly grouped as: semantic barriers, psychological barriers, organisational barriers, and personal barriers. These are briefly discussed below:” “Semantic barriers: Semantics is the branch of linguistics dealing with the meaning of words and sentences. Semantic barriers are concerned with problems and obstructions in the process of encoding and decoding of message into words or impressions. Normally, such barriers result on account of use of wrong words, faulty translations, different interpretations, etc. …” “Unclarified assumptions: Some communications may have certain assumptions which are subject to different interpretations. For example, a boss may instruct his subordinate, “Take care of our guest”. …” |