A demerit of communication is that it can give room for distortion of fact. When people communicate, there is a risk that the message can be altered or misunderstood in the transmission process. This can happen due to various factors such as language barriers, differences in cultural backgrounds, personal biases, and technical glitches.
Distortion of fact can result in miscommunication, which can lead to confusion, conflicts, and wrong decisions. For instance, if a message is misinterpreted during a business negotiation, it could result in a failed deal or a costly mistake. Similarly, if a news report is distorted, it can misinform the public and cause unnecessary panic or outrage.
Therefore, it is important to ensure that communication is clear, concise, and accurate. This can be achieved through proper planning, effective use of communication channels, and active listening. By minimizing the risk of distortion of fact, communication can become a more effective tool for conveying information and building relationships.