Communication codes change with each generation. And emojis like abbreviations are no exception to the rule. And if you use certain symbols in your conversations, you will come across as a nerdy or a boomer!
Emojis have gradually integrated written language, whether in our discussions with friends or in the professional world. These little illustrations, found in instant messaging (WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram, etc.), in collaboration software (Teams, Slack, etc.), email services (Gmail, Outlook, etc.) or in the keyboards of mobile devices, make it easier to transmit our emotions or ideas when we send text messages.
But there’s no question of using just any of them, especially if you don’t want to come across as a “boomer” – a mocking term for generations who were not born with the Internet and whose uses are considered outdated. Yes, we know that when it comes to communication, the younger generation has always had its own codes, and emojis are no exception! And the famous Gen Z is particularly uncompromising towards its elders!
The thumbs up is the first emoji in the “only old people use it” category. Gen Z criticizes it for its passive aggressive side, including in the professional field. Suffice to say that it complicates things, because the famous boomers are particularly fond of it and only see it as a simple sign of validation, whereas the youngest perceive a contemptuous side. They much prefer to receive a simple “Okay”, “Great” or even “Thank you”.
The “crying with laughter” emoji, often used in reaction to content or a message sent to indicate laughter, is one of the most used in the world. However, it is also hardly appreciated by the younger generation. She considers it too basic – this is also the case for the “rolling on the ground laughing” emoji – and prefers a “skull” emoji, a way for her to mean the expression “death to laugh.” As for the “heart” emoji, although warm, it is also considered dusty.
In the list of the cheesiest emojis, we also find the hand that makes the “OK” sign – like among divers –, the hands that applaud, the poop emoji, the face that cries very hard, the grimacing face, the validation checkmark, the monkey covering its eyes as well as the lipstick mark – which must undoubtedly evoke too much the sloppy and forced kisses that we receive as children.
But the markings has been are not limited to emojis: punctuation and language tics also allow you to guess, at first glance, the age group of the interlocutor! As for punctuation, the numerous ellipses, the “?!” or abuse of “!!!” are a sign of advanced age. Likewise, if someone writes “LOL” in all capitals, they are most likely a boomer. The latter also tends to write in all capitals, not to use punctuation or an apostrophe – because he doesn’t know where it is – and to use many emojis one after the other. So, do you recognize yourself?