When can communication be misunderstood?

Communication can be misunderstood primarily when tone of voice is disregarded. Tone of voice conveys a significant amount of meaning beyond the actual words spoken; it can express emotions, intentions, and other context that may alter the listener's understanding. For instance, the same phrase can sound sarcastic, sincere, or angry depending on how it's delivered. Therefore, neglecting tone can lead to misinterpretations of a message, highlighting its importance in effective communication.

While other factors are relevant, such as using verbal explanations without non-verbal cues or considering the environment, they don't directly emphasize the integral role that tone plays in communication clarity. Ignoring tone is a common issue that can readily lead to misunderstandings in various interactions.