The meaningful use of quiet within speech, which can carry weight, doubt or emphasis.
A leader pauses for several seconds before answering, letting the question settle. The silence does work that words could not, lending gravity to whatever follows it.
A pause can signal reflection, hesitation or deliberate emphasis depending on the moment. Note whether the quiet feels chosen or caught, since a crafted pause differs from an anxious one.
Silence is easily misread, so consider whether it is comfortable or strained. A thoughtful pause and an uneasy one can look alike from the outside.