Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of effective communication?

Clarity, conciseness, and active listening are all fundamental characteristics of effective communication. Clarity ensures that the message is easily understood, reducing the potential for confusion. Conciseness involves delivering messages in a straightforward manner without superfluous information, which helps maintain the audience’s attention and understanding. Active listening reflects the ability to fully engage and respond to the speaker, promoting a more productive exchange of ideas.

Ambiguity, on the other hand, does not support effective communication. It introduces uncertainty and can lead to misinterpretation of the message being conveyed. When communication is ambiguous, it undermines the clarity and intention of the message, making it harder for the receiver to grasp the key points. Therefore, identifying ambiguity as the option that does not belong aligns perfectly with the qualities that contribute to effective communication.