Why The Thumbs-Up Emoji Is Now Rude
I got it: a casual way to say ‘I understand’ or ‘I will handle it.’
The thumbs-up emoji seems simple. It’s always been a quick way to say “I got it” or “thanks.” But that’s all changing, according to writer Helen Coffey. She says that Generation Z thinks it’s passive-aggressive.
On social media, one young person shared their story. At their job, people use the thumbs-up emoji a lot, but they felt it was unsettling. Other young people agreed. They said it felt unfriendly or rude.
It’s not just the thumbs-up emoji that is taking on new meaning. Gen Z also thinks “You’re welcome” sounds rude. This might surprise many older people, but it is part of changing communication styles.
Gen Z thinks that when someone says “You’re welcome,” it means the person believes they did something very important. Instead of “You’re welcome,” they prefer simpler responses like “No problem” or “Of course.” They feel this makes the favor seem smaller and sounds more friendly.
The cultural divide between generations is nothing new. As communication evolves, language and even emojis take on new meanings, creating challenges in understanding between the old and young.
Sample sentences
1. After hearing the instructions, she nodded and said, “I got it.”
2. I was confused at first, but now I think I got it.
3. When my boss explained the new task for the third time I told him, “Don’t worry. I got it.”
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The thumbs-up emoji isn’t passive-aggressive – Gen Z need to get over it