LIN204: Internet language IV [LIN204W2V5]

Summary

The video explores the evolution of online communication, focusing on emoticons, kaomoji, and emojis. It highlights how internet language has developed to convey emotions and expressions without physical gestures or spoken intonation. From the early days of text-based emoticons to the rich, creative world of emojis, the video discusses their cultural origins, uses, and how they vary by generation. It emphasizes how these forms of expression help shape online identity and communication, encouraging viewers to appreciate the nuances and rules behind digital conversations.

Takeaways

• 😀 Emoticons, like :) and :), are creative uses of punctuation to convey emotions in online communication.
• 😀 Kaomoji (顔文字) are another form of emoticons, which do not require turning your head sideways to see the face, making them more accessible.
• 😀 Emojis, which originated in Japan, have evolved since the late 90s and early 2000s and are now a global phenomenon.
• 😀 The cultural roots of emojis are visible in icons like the Naruto fish cake or Tokyo Tower, which reflect Japanese references.
• 😀 Emojis can express more than emotions—they can communicate ideas like good news (with a smiley face) or sadness (with a crying emoji).
• 😀 The way emojis are used may vary by generation, with newer generations often utilizing emojis for sarcasm or added expression.
• 😀 Emojis can clarify the tone of a conversation, as their use can completely change the message conveyed, such as adding humor or indicating sarcasm.
• 😀 Some emojis, like the upside-down smiley face, are commonly used for subtle emotions, like forced smiles or irony.
• 😀 Emojis can be used creatively in online communication, like matching heart emojis to the colors of a dress, adding extra layers of meaning to a conversation.
• 😀 The use of emojis has specific, intuitive rules, and is not just an informal or sloppy way of communicating—there are meaningful communicative functions behind them.

Q & A

What is the difference between emoticons and kaomoji?

Emoticons are sideways representations of facial expressions created using punctuation marks, such as :-) or :-( . Kaomoji, on the other hand, are upright representations made using characters (e.g., (^_^) or (T_T)), so you don’t need to tilt your head to interpret them.

How do emojis differ from emoticons and kaomoji?

Emojis are pictograms or ideograms, such as smiley faces, animals, or objects, and they are pictures rather than made from punctuation or characters. They are more visually detailed and have become a global language for expression.

Why are kaomoji often associated with Japanese communication?

Kaomoji originated in Japan and became popular as a form of online communication, where characters are arranged to form expressive faces that can be viewed upright without tilting the head.

How have emojis evolved since their introduction in the late 90s and early 2000s?

Emojis have expanded significantly, with more inclusive representations, including variations for gender expression, skin tones, and even cultural symbols. They continue to evolve with new additions and updates, such as the introduction of emojis for different facial expressions and objects.

How can emojis affect the meaning of a message?

Emojis can change the tone or emotion conveyed in a message. For example, adding a smiley face to a text suggests happiness or positivity, while a crying emoji can indicate sadness or frustration. Emojis can even affect how the message is interpreted, depending on the context and the specific emoji used.

What role do emojis play in punctuating a conversation?

Emojis can be used to mark the end of a conversation or to clarify the tone. For example, reacting with a thumbs-up emoji might signal agreement or closure, while a sushi emoji in response to a conversation about food could highlight the topic and signify the conversation is about sushi.

Can emojis be used as standalone responses in conversations?

Yes, emojis can function as standalone responses, where the emoji itself conveys the intended message without the need for additional text. For instance, sending a heart emoji in response to a message about love or admiration.

What is the significance of emoji use based on different generations?

Different generations use emojis in distinct ways. For example, younger generations, like Gen Z, often use emojis with more irony or sarcasm, while older generations may use them more straightforwardly. This generational difference influences how emojis are interpreted in communication.

Why might some people find it ungrammatical to replace words with emojis?

For some people, it may feel ungrammatical to replace words entirely with emojis, as it can disrupt the standard structure of a sentence. While emojis can complement the message, replacing core vocabulary might lead to confusion or loss of clarity.

How do cultural references influence emoji use?

Many emojis have cultural origins and may reference specific traditions or items, such as Japanese food items like fish cakes or rice balls. These references can affect how emojis are interpreted and used depending on one's cultural background and knowledge.