Which of the following is NOT a major channel of communication?

Communication channels serve as the mediums through which information is transmitted, and they can be categorized in various ways. Among the listed options, formal communication does not represent a distinct channel in the same manner as nonverbal, written, and oral communications.

Nonverbal communication involves body language, facial expressions, gestures, and other forms of conveying meaning without spoken or written words. It is a significant channel, as it can greatly enhance or contradict spoken messages.

Written communication refers to the transfer of information through text, which can be in the form of emails, reports, letters, or any documented format. This channel is crucial in business for maintaining records and delivering clear, structured information.

Oral communication is the spoken exchange of information, which can take place in meetings, presentations, or informal conversations. This channel fosters immediacy and interaction, allowing for real-time feedback and clarification.

In contrast, formal communication is a characteristic or type of communication, often governed by organizational protocols and structures, rather than a standalone channel itself. Thus, it does not fit the same category as the other types, which are fundamental ways of conveying messages.