In discussing emoji use across generations, it’s evident that differing outlooks shape how emojis are interpreted and employed. Jo, representing Gen Z, noted a tendency among their peers to use emojis ironically or humorously rather than in a literal sense. They emphasized the rapid evolution of trends within their generation, requiring constant adaptation to what is deemed amusing or relevant. Conversely, Sam, a millennial, observed that younger generations utilize emojis as punctuation or brief responses, whereas older generations, including those less familiar with online culture, employ them more earnestly.
The “loudly crying face” emoji
Jo and Michael related it to laughing at something inappropriate or traumatic. Em associated it with expressing emotions such as beauty or cuteness. Sam mentioned it as her most used emoji, indicating happiness or feeling loved. Ant and Mike associated it with sadness or emotional situations.
The “exploding head” emoji
Jo associated it with sarcastic shock or exasperation. Michael associated it with sarcasm or indifference. Em and Sam associated it with being mind-blown. Ant associated it with overwhelming situations. Mike related it to confusion or being overwhelmed.
The “nail polish” emoji
Jo associated it with queerness or self-expression. Em related it to something fancy. Sam associated it with queer identity. Ant related it to relaxation. Mike associated it with diva behavior.
The “weary face” emoji
Jo associated it with reacting to an attractive person. Em and Sam related it to expressions of frustration or disbelief. Ant associated it with conveying bad news or regrets. Mike associated it with sad news but not necessarily death-related.
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The “hot face” emoji
Michael related it to sarcastic compliments or jokingly showing heat. Em described it as feeling overwhelmed, possibly implying horniness. Sam related it to sweating due to someone’s attractiveness. Ant and Mike associated it with literal heat or high temperatures.
The “face with rolling eyes” emoji
Jo, Em, and Sam associated it with eye-rolling. Ant associated it with skepticism or confusion. Mike associated it with anticipating someone’s foolishness.
The “eyes” emoji
Jo hadn’t used it much and hadn’t seen it used. Em associated it with peeping or observation. Sam associated it with curiosity or suspicion. Mike related it to incredulousness or doubt.
The “smiling face with hearts” emoji
Jo perceived it as being used passively aggressively or sarcastically. Em related it to expressing gratitude or kindness. Sam used it to express appreciation or as a “you’re welcome.” Ant associated it with expressions of love or happiness. Mike related it to family interactions or happy occasions.
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The “folded hands” emoji
Jo associated it with various uses, including expressing attraction, gratitude, or pleading. Em related it to expressing hope. Sam associated it with the gesture ‘please’. Ant found it annoying and associated it with blessings or safety wishes. Mike associated it with blessings or prayers.
The “face with raised eyebrow” emoji
Jo associated it with voicing skepticism or suspicion. Em related it to voicing disbelief or interest. Sam related it to signaling suspicion or questioning. Ant related it to describing skepticism or curiosity. Mike related it to expressing disbelief or conflict.
The “smirking face” emoji
Jo associated it with implying something or hinting at attractiveness. Michael associated it with sarcasm or sneakiness. Em related it to mischief. Sam related it to playful flirting or sneakiness. Ant and Mike weren’t sure about its usage.
Emoticons still trump emojis
