What does the term “decoding” refer to in the communication process?

The term “decoding” in the communication process refers specifically to the process by which the receiver interprets and makes sense of the message received. When a sender conveys information, they encode their thoughts and intentions into a message, which is then transmitted through a channel. The recipient, upon receiving this message, engages in decoding, where they analyze and interpret the content, tone, and context to derive meaning.

This interpretation relies on the receiver's previous experiences, knowledge, and understanding of the language or symbols used in the message. Effective decoding is crucial for successful communication because it ensures that the intended message aligns with the interpretation of the receiver. If decoding is done properly, it leads to mutual understanding, while misinterpretations can result in confusion or conflict.