Exploring the linguistic functions of emojis in gen-z's social media conversation / Erica E. Almasco, Glaidel Marie M. Braga, and Grace Ann R. Iballar,

Undergraduate Theses (ABELS) - English Language Studies. Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, 2025.

Includes bibliographic references.

In a time when technology has defined and dominated society, the way people communicate and engage has changed beyond traditional text. New tools that go beyond language and text are presented such as emojis. However, research on the linguistic functions of emojis in social media conversations are limited. The main objective of this qualitative study was to explore and analyze the linguistic functions of emojis, specifically its syntactic, semantic and pragmatic functions in social media conversations among Gen-Z users. Fifty screenshots were gathered from authentic social media conversations of Gen-Zs that utilized emojis on Messenger and analyzed through the lens of Moriss’ Semiotic approach (1938) or known as Charles Morris’ Triadic System of Semiotics. The analysis revealed that the emojis carry linguistic functions. Syntactically, Gen Zs often put emojis at the end of the text which serve as a punctuation-like element or sentence final modifiers which reinforce the tone of the message. Semantically, emojis have a distinct meaning that corresponds to objects, ideas or emotions and can hold cultural or symbolic significance. Pragmatically, the finding revealed that emojis often function as performative acts such as expressing emotions (expressives) The findings suggest that emojis are more than just a decoration, they are embedded with linguistic functions that transform and deepen the meaning, structure, and social impact of online communication. Their combined syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic functions highlight their significance as semiotic components that facilitate more expressive, dynamic, and socially aware interactions among Gen-Z users in the digital age.