When examining how different generations use emojis, itโs clear that their perspectives influence both interpretation and usage. Jo, a Gen Z representative, mentioned that their peers often use emojis in a humorous or ironic way rather than sticking to their literal meanings. They also highlighted how quickly trends change within their generation, requiring ongoing adaptation to stay current with whatโs considered funny or relevant. In contrast, Sam, a millennial, noted that younger users tend to use emojis more like punctuation or quick replies. Meanwhile, older generationsโespecially those less immersed in online cultureโare more likely to use emojis sincerely and straightforwardly.
Ant, representing Generation X, shared that he typically uses emojis as a reaction to others rather than starting a conversation with them. He recognized that younger people tend to use emojis more often and admitted he usually prefers to write out his responses without depending on emojis. Similarly, Mike, a baby boomer, agreed with this perspective, noting that older generations are generally less likely to incorporate emojis into their communication than younger users.
(Face with Tears of Joy)Jo remarked that this emoji is frequently used to express something funny, while Sam pointed out that it serves as a quick, simplified response. Ant noted itโs often used in reply to othersโ messages, reflecting its familiarity across different age groups. Although Mike didnโt offer a clear interpretation, he acknowledged its popularity among younger individuals.(Hundred Points)Jo and Sam associated this emoji with expressing strong agreement or adding emphasis. Ant explained that itโs commonly used in reaction to messages from others. Mike didnโt provide a specific meaning but recognized that the emoji is known.(Raising Hands)jo and Sam both identified it as a symbol of celebration or agreement. Ant did not share any particular interpretation, and Mike did not comment on this emoji either.
After discussing these, the participants were shown a few other emojis at random and asked to describe their meaning or typical use. Their responses are summarized below:
Jo linked the emoji to expressing disdain or hesitation. Michael saw it as representing annoyance or irritation. Em and Sam interpreted it as a reflection of feeling emotionally weighed down or surrounded by negativity. Ant wasnโt certain about its meaning. Mike connected it to an uncomfortable or unfavorable situation.
Jo mentioned using the emoji in a sarcastic way to mimic others. Em proposed it could be used in formal contexts to signal that something is meant to be humorous. Ant linked it to moments of uncontrollable laughter. Mike connected it to situations that are extremely funny.
Jo interpreted the emoji as giving off an โIโm deadโ tone or as a stand-in for the word โbruh.โ Michael linked it to situations where someone does something foolish. Em explained that itโs often used in moments of intense laughter or surprise. Sam connected it to feeling mortified or shocked to the point of embarrassment. Ant and Mike mentioned they rarely use it but might associate it with negativity or themes of death.
Jo and Michael connected the emoji to laughing in response to inappropriate or distressing situations. Em linked it to showing feelings like beauty or affection. Sam noted it as her favorite emoji, representing joy or feeling loved. Ant and Mike associated it with sadness or emotionally charged moments.
Jo linked the emoji to sarcastic surprise or frustration. Michael saw it as representing sarcasm or a lack of concern. Em and Sam associated it with feeling amazed or mind-blown. Ant connected it to situations that feel overwhelming. Mike related it to feelings of confusion or being overwhelmed.
Jo linked the emoji to queer identity or personal expression. Em connected it to elegance or fanciness. Sam also associated it with queer identity. Ant saw it as representing relaxation. Mike related it to confident or diva-like behavior.
Jo connected the emoji to responding to someone attractive. Em and Sam linked it to showing frustration or disbelief. Ant saw it as expressing bad news or regret. Mike associated it with sad news, though not necessarily related to death.
Michael connected the emoji to sarcastic praise or playfully indicating heat. Em described it as expressing feeling overwhelmed, sometimes suggesting attraction. Sam linked it to sweating because of someoneโs appeal. Ant and Mike associated it with actual heat or hot weather.
Jo, Em, and Sam saw it as a sign of eye-rolling, while Ant interpreted it as skepticism or confusion. Mike viewed it as expecting someone to act foolishly.
Jo rarely used it and hadnโt noticed others using it. Em linked it to peeking or watching. Sam connected it with curiosity or mistrust. Mike interpreted it as expressing disbelief or skepticism.
Jo saw it as having a passive-aggressive or sarcastic tone. Em associated it with showing gratitude or kindness. Sam used it to express appreciation or as a way of saying โyouโre welcome.โ Ant linked it to feelings of love or joy, while Mike connected it to warm family moments or cheerful occasions.
Jo saw it as versatile, using it to convey attraction, gratitude, or a pleading tone. Em connected it with expressing hope. Sam linked it to a polite โpleaseโ gesture. Ant found it irritating and tied it to blessings or wishing someone safety. Mike viewed it as a symbol of blessings or prayer.
Jo linked the emoji to showing doubt or mistrust. Em saw it as a way to convey surprise or curiosity. Sam viewed it as a sign of questioning or wariness. Ant took it as a symbol of doubt or interest. Mike felt it reflected disbelief or tension.
Jo saw it as implying something or hinting at attractiveness. Michael linked it to sarcasm or sneakiness. Em connected it with mischief. Sam thought of playful flirting or sneakiness. Ant and Mike werenโt quite sure how it was used.
Although the meanings of emojis can sometimes be unclear, people generally understand what emoticons mean. Emoticons like ๐ and ๐ have been around since the early 1980s, well before emojis existed. A 2001 study found that most people agree the happy face ๐ shows something positive, while the sad face ๐ shows something negative. Emojis were created in Japan in the late 1990s, but simple emoticons have been a universal way to express emotions in digital chats for decades.
