As a person who frequently (if not always) uses emoticons, it never fails to surprise me when people accuse me of using them too much and portraying myself as “unprofessional.” I understand the difference between using emoticons in a formal atmosphere and using them as a “chat accessory” so what’s wrong with them?
A few reasons why i use emoticons:
- Funny: If you really search, there are many fun emoticons (see some below):
♫~d^_^b~♪ ☆*:.。.o(≧▽≦)o.。.:*☆ (」゜ロ゜)」 (*・ω・)ノ
- Breaking the ice: Informality! Speaking to someone who chats like they’re writing an essay for their professor…it’s quite awkward.
- Emphasis/Clarification: Emoticons represent your “face” (albeit online). When speaking in real life, people will often assign an expression with what they’re saying – the same thing applies to chatting online. When I chat online, I find it useful to add a face next to what I’m talking about, just to clarify my feelings (it also helps when you’re using sarcasm).
Meanings of emoticons:
A few emoticons and what they mean in general (many of these stem from anime/manga):
:3 ——> Paired with a statement talking about cute things or sarcasm.
XD ——> Laughing face; usually paired with Lol (or something similar). Also a reference to South Park.
x) ——> A devious smirk!
D: ——> Disappointed
゚ Д゚ ——-> Shock
>_< ; —-> Slight embarrassment