What is the process of sending and receiving messages between people called?

The process of sending and receiving messages between people is termed communication. This encompasses the exchange of information, ideas, emotions, and thoughts through verbal, non-verbal, written, or visual means. Effective communication requires not only the delivery of a message by the sender but also the understanding of that message by the receiver. This two-way interaction is essential for successful relationships and interactions in both personal and professional contexts.

While interaction refers to the way individuals connect and act upon one another, it is a broader concept that may not necessarily involve the explicit exchange of messages. Engagement can imply a more active participation in discussions or activities, but it does not specifically define the message exchange aspect. Discussion typically focuses on a specific topic or dialogue between individuals, but it is a subset of communication rather than the overall process. Thus, communication serves as the most accurate term for the action of sending and receiving messages.