JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE STUDIES AND ARTS

This research examines the significance of emojis in digital communication, specifically highlighting the generational distinctions between Generation Z and Millennials. Utilizing concepts from Semiotics, Pragmatics and Social Information Processing (SIP) theory, the study analyses a dataset comprising 50 responses that were purposively selected and discourse samples gathered from interactions on What tsApp and Twitter. The results indicate that although both generations regard emojis as essentials tools for improving online communication, their uses and interpretations differ. Generation Z employs emojis in innovative ways, frequently reinterpreting meanings of humor, irony, and identity formation, while Millennials tend to use them in a more traditional manner to clarify tone and convey emotions. The research concludes that emojis serve as dynamic semiotic and pragmatic resources, with their meanings influenced by generational culture, thereby contributing to the revolving standards of digital communication;

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