Definition
Nonspeaking and nonverbal both describe people who do not communicate mainly through speech, but many in the community prefer nonspeaking. Nonverbal can wrongly suggest a person has no language or no understanding of words at all. Nonspeaking simply describes how someone communicates, while honoring that they may read, type, sign, or use AAC to share rich language.
Why It Matters
Words shape assumptions, and calling someone nonverbal can invite others to underestimate their thoughts and abilities. Choosing nonspeaking keeps the focus on presuming competence, reminding everyone that not speaking does not mean not understanding or not having plenty to say.
Common Misconception
The biggest misconception is that a nonspeaking person has no inner language or nothing to communicate. Many understand everything around them and express complex ideas through other means, which is exactly why the more accurate word matters.