One of the main functions of nonverbal communication is to complement the process of verbal communication. Thanks to nonverbal communication, it is possible to emphasize the message, to react contradictorily to what was said by the interlocutors. In addition, nonverbal communication has the following functions:
Replace an expression or phrase
Attribute adjustments to speech, pauses and gestures, giving greater understanding to what is said
Expose power relations and interpersonal influences
Contradict what is being said
Complement a message.
Based on this, we can say that if you shrug your shoulders to say "I don't know", instead of actually saying those words, you are using one of the functions of nonverbal communication which is "Replacing."
