What role does body language play in public speaking?

Body language plays a crucial role in public speaking by emphasizing and reinforcing spoken messages. Nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, gestures, posture, and eye contact can greatly enhance the audience's understanding and engagement with the speaker's message. These nonverbal elements can convey emotions and attitudes, helping to create a connection with the audience, clarify meaning, and add emphasis to key points. When body language aligns with the verbal content, it strengthens the overall communication, making the message more compelling and memorable for listeners. This synergy between verbal and nonverbal communication is essential for effective public speaking.