Which of the following best describes "illustrators"?

"Illustrators" are gestures that accompany speech and help to emphasize, clarify, or elaborate on a point being made. They are intentional movements that enhance verbal communication, making it clearer and more engaging for the listener. For example, using hand gestures to indicate the size or shape of an object while describing it provides a visual reference that complements the spoken word.

In this context, the emphasis created by arm movements serves to reinforce the message being conveyed, making them an effective tool in both casual conversations and formal interviews. This technique can help interviewers gauge the sincerity and confidence of the individual being interviewed based on how they use their hands to complement their verbal assertions.

Considering the other options, simplistic hand gestures may lack the specific emphasis that illustrators provide. Body postures indicating guilt are more about nonverbal signals of deception and do not directly relate to the supportive function of illustrators. Lastly, while facial expressions do play a role in communication, they are distinct from the gestural emphasis that characterizes illustrators.