IGCSE Travel and Tourism Practice Exam

What term is used for casual communication that spreads quickly throughout a department?

1. Formal communication

2. Word-of-mouth

3. Structured communication

4. Organizational communication

The correct answer is: Word-of-mouth

The term that describes casual communication spreading quickly throughout a department is accurately identified as word-of-mouth. This form of communication relies on informal conversations and interactions among individuals, leading to the rapid dissemination of information, news, or opinions. Word-of-mouth communication is often spontaneous and can be highly influential, as it is based on personal relationships and trust. People tend to share information in casual settings, such as during breaks or informal meetings, which can create a ripple effect as individuals pass along what they've heard to others. In contrast, formal communication involves structured messages conveyed through official channels, often in written form, intended for clarity and professionalism. Structured communication places emphasis on organized and predetermined methods of interaction within an organization, and organizational communication generally refers to the broader framework of how information is shared within a company but does not specifically focus on the informal, rapid sharing that characterizes word-of-mouth.