Examining Concrete Vs. Abstract Communication Styles
As is the case with the a few other communication styles, this dimension may have to do more with cognitive style or at least be related to it. It may also be related to the approach used to solve problems, inductive vs. deductive reasoning.
Concrete Style Communication
Issues are best understood through stories, metaphors, allegories, and examples, with emphasis on the specific rather than the general. (What’s an example?)
Abstract Style Communication
Issues are best understood through theories, principles, and data, with emphasis on the general rather than the specific. (What’s the principle?)
Abstract communicators are often found in academia, and can sound pretentious or off topic to those that prefer a more concrete way of talking.