YOU may find yourself often using emojis in your messages to add an extra meaning or add context.
However, some emojis can be interpreted different and one of those is the thumbs-up emoji. What does it actually mean and is it rude to use it? Here's everything you need to know.
What does the thumbs up emoji mean?
In most instances, a thumbs up is the emoji equivalent of "sounds good'' or more simply agreeing and saying ''yes''.
In the digital world, it's mostly used to acknowledge a message you have received without having to spend the time typing and texting back.
It is commonly used in the workplace when communicating with other colleagues.
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According to Dictionary.com, a thumbs up is used to "express assent, approval, or encouragement in digital communications, especially in Western cultures."
It may also be used to express happiness at a message or receiving a photo.
Is a thumbs up emoji rude and why can it be an insult?
The answer to this question will differ depending on who you ask, but some think the emoji can be quite rude.
For some, the thumbs up emoji is just simply an emoji used when quickly acknowledging a message or expressing general contentment.
However, to others, this emoji is actually quite rude and in particular, Gen Z users are against using it as it is a very passive-aggressive and sarcastic emoji.
To some, the emoji can be perceived as hurtful", "hostile", and "inappropriate" to use.
Some may think receiving a thumbs-up can be a sarcastic response to a previous message.
According to a survey carried out by Perspectus Global of 2000 respondents between the ages of 16 and 29, the majority believed that the thumbs-up emoji not only gives a rude expression, but users appear "officially old" when used.
And a quarter of them said the thumbs-up emoji is the "uncoolest" emoji of them all.
What does it mean when someone sends you a thumbs up?
Context is everything in this case - and in most instances, a thumbs up emoji is just an acknowledgement of a previous message.
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However, using the emoji to respond can sometimes be perceived as rude and that the user sending it is too lazy to type a written message.
Urban Dictionary says the emoji is still used as a "sign of approval" and "well wishes" in response to everyday messages.
