The words "verbal" and "spoken" are often confused, but there's a key difference. "Spoken" refers specifically to communication using sounds, while "verbal" encompasses a broader range of communication that uses words, whether spoken or written. Think of it this way: all spoken communication is verbal, but not all verbal communication is spoken.

Let's look at some examples to make it clearer. Consider the sentence, "She gave a spoken warning." This means she warned someone using spoken words, not a written note. The translation in a different language would focus on the communication being delivered orally. For instance, in Spanish, it would be something like "Ella dio una advertencia hablada." However, a "verbal agreement" might be communicated either through a conversation or in a written contract. In this case, even if the agreement is written down, it is still considered "verbal" because it uses words. In Spanish, this would likely be translated as "un acuerdo verbal," which would still apply to a written contract. Another example: "He gave a verbal presentation." This means he presented something using words, which could have been spoken or written. In Spanish, a possible translation is "Dio una presentación verbal." This could also encompass a written presentation, for example.

Here are a few more examples:

• Spoken: "He spoke eloquently at the meeting." (Spoken: He gave a fluent speech at the meeting.)
• Verbal: "The contract included a verbal clause on confidentiality." (Verbal: The contract included a written clause on confidentiality.)
• Spoken: "The instructions were delivered orally." (Spoken: The instructions were clearly spoken.)
• Verbal: "There was a verbal description of the incident." (Verbal: A written report of the incident was given.)

Understanding this difference will improve your English and help you use these words correctly. Happy learning!