Gen Z Feels That Thumbs-Up Emoji Needs To Go; They Interpret It As Rude

If you belong to an age group older than Zoomers, chances are you've used the thumbs-up emoji to indicate approval in texts and instant messages. But for Gen Z-ers?

They don't like it. In fact, some people from this generation feel that the thumbs-up emoji is seen as sarcastic, passive-aggressive, or even hostile.

They've already targeted the Millennial pause and Boomer ellipses, and now they're coming for the thumbs-up emoji. It all started with a Reddit thread where a user initiated a discussion about it.

Gen Z individuals feel that the emoji is rude rather than a sign to communicate "okay," "yes," or "good." In studies about the most popular emojis among younger users, the thumbs-up is now seen as old-fashioned and best avoided.

A 2021 consumer study and various news outlets claim that the thumbs-up emoji is the top emoji that makes you look old. But it isn't just a matter of preference.

Some reports indicate that the meanings of emojis have shifted. For millennials or Gen Y (born in the 1980s), the thinking-face emoji means exactly that: thinking.

But for Zoomers, it seems to convey feelings of worry or anxiety. Let's take a look at some views expressed by Zoomers on the Reddit thread.

A Redditor feels that the thumbs-up emoji isn't a sign of approval. They wouldn't use it as an affirmation toward a message.

I started an ‘adult’ job where we use Microsoft Teams to connect with each other for work.Currently, there are only a few emojis you can use to react to a message (unless, of course, you respond and can use any emoji).Most people at work use the ‘thumbs-up’ reaction all the time.I don’t use it much. I either ‘heart’ reactions or reply, even if it’s a short ‘Great!’ or ‘Thanks!’ (I also feel like I use too many exclamation marks, but that’s a different story).Anyway, I think it’s normal to ‘thumbs up’ messages, but I still feel like it’s such an unsettling response.Does anyone else feel this way?Getty Stock Photo

This emoji would even offend some people.

Apparently, there are other Zoomers who share the same feelings toward this emoji.

I feel the same way! We even have a sort of social platform/yammer, and I can't only like a post. I lead with my feelings, though, so it may be because of that... I get mad seeing thumbs-ups lol; it's pretty bad.

Another user said:

For younger people (I’m 24 for reference), the thumbs-up emoji is often used in a passive-aggressive manner.It’s super rude if someone just sends you a thumbs-up. So I also had a weird time adjusting because my workplace is the same.So yeah, it’s a generational communication culture difference.Getty Stock Photo

Some people disagree with the previous sentiments.

It's just a way to say 'I've read your message and have nothing to add, and I hope and pray to all the gods that all the bazillion people in this group chat have nothing to say on it too.'

Another user also disagrees, saying:

What in the world can possibly be passive-aggressive in that? Newsflash: not everything is a micro-aggression.Getty Stock Image/Lu ShaoJi

Generational Communication Shift

Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship expert, notes that the thumbs-up emoji symbolizes a generational divide in communication styles. For Gen Z, this emoji can come off as dismissive or insincere, contrasting sharply with the intent of older generations who perceive it as a simple affirmation.

Solomon suggests that understanding these differences is crucial for effective communication across age groups. She recommends using more nuanced emojis or even opting for text responses to ensure clarity and emotional connection, bridging the gap between generations.

According to Dr. Brené Brown, a leading researcher on vulnerability, the thumbs-up emoji's perceived rudeness can evoke feelings of disconnection. In our increasingly digital world, emotional cues are often diluted, leading to misunderstandings.

Brown emphasizes that fostering emotional intelligence and awareness in our communications can enhance interpersonal relationships. She advocates for using emojis that convey warmth and empathy, such as smileys or hearts, instead of ambiguous symbols, which can prevent miscommunication and enhance understanding among diverse age groups.

People shouldn't easily assume the meaning of emojis, especially if they're used by an older generation or even social media users in the same age group. Context is important when it comes to understanding how emojis react to a message.

Users shouldn't instantly think that a thumbs-up is an expression of something negative.

Behavioral Analysis & Pathways Forward

In conclusion, as digital communication evolves, so do the interpretations of common symbols like the thumbs-up emoji. Recognizing the nuances in generational communication can foster better relationships and aid in reducing misunderstandings.

By adopting more expressive and emotionally resonant emojis, we can create a more inclusive digital dialogue that resonates with all age groups. Emphasizing emotional intelligence and empathy in our interactions will not only improve communication but also strengthen connections in an increasingly fragmented world.