Emojis are meant to add emotional nuance and personality to our messages, but some are more likely to irritate than engage. According to a recent study by Perspectus Global, which surveyed 2,000 Brits aged 16 to 29, there are several emojis that Gen Z finds particularly annoying. Here’s a rundown of the top offenders:
1. Thumbs-Up Emoji (👍)
- Why It Annoys: Gen Z sees the thumbs-up emoji as a symbol of passive aggression or dismissiveness. It’s often perceived as a low-effort response, akin to a terse “K” or a period at the end of a sentence.
2. Red Heart (❤️)
- Why It Annoys: While intended to express love or affection, the red heart can come off as overly sentimental or insincere, especially in casual conversations.
3. Okay Sign (👌)
- Why It Annoys: The okay sign can be interpreted as dismissive or patronizing. Its use as a reaction can be perceived as indifferent or sarcastic.
4. Check Mark (✔️)
- Why It Annoys: The check mark is often seen as an uninspired response, especially when used as an acknowledgment rather than a genuine interaction.
5. Poo Emoji (💩)
- Why It Annoys: The poo emoji is generally considered juvenile and unprofessional. It’s often seen as an inappropriate way to react to serious conversations.
6. Intense Crying Face (😭)
- Why It Annoys: While intended to convey strong emotions, the intense crying face can come across as over-the-top or melodramatic in certain contexts.
7. Monkey Covering Its Eyes (🙈)
- Why It Annoys: This emoji is often viewed as overly dramatic or childish. It can be interpreted as hiding from something rather than engaging with it.
8. Clapping Hands (👏)
- Why It Annoys: The clapping hands emoji can be perceived as sarcastic or insincere, especially when used in response to something that doesn’t warrant applause.
9. Kiss or Lips Mark (💋)
- Why It Annoys: The kiss emoji can seem too intimate or out of place in casual or professional conversations, making it feel awkward.
10. Grimacing Face (😬)
- Why It Annoys: The grimacing face is often seen as expressing discomfort or awkwardness, which can come across as negative or unhelpful.
Additional Emojis to Avoid
- Upside-Down Smiley (🙃)
- Why It Annoys: Often used to indicate passive hostility or frustration, the upside-down smiley can feel sarcastic and dismissive.
- 100 Points (💯)
- Why It Annoys: Intended to express enthusiasm or approval, it can sometimes come off as sarcastic or backhanded, implying inadequacy.
Using emojis thoughtfully can enhance communication rather than detract from it. Being aware of how your emojis might be perceived can help you avoid misunderstandings and keep your conversations positive and engaging.
