Digital Communication and Pragmatic Meaning: A Case Study of Social Media Communication

11 Jul

Authors: Ina’am A. Abdul-Kadhim

Abstract: The emergence of digital communication has profoundly transformed the organization and practical importance of language. This paper explores the expansion of social media as a transformative linguistic convention that generates innovative forms of expression and communication. The use of emojis has transformed how people express their views and underlying beliefs on online platforms. However, the lack of non-verbal cues and the anonymous nature of online communication might potentially lead to misinterpretation. Understanding the influence of digital communication on language and its practical importance is crucial, and it is necessary to adapt to the changing norms associated with it. Based on Pohl et al.'s (2017) study on social media language communication and the linguistic role of emojis, the researcher believes that emojis are used to convey social and emotional indicators, as well as to improve the clarity of the message. Nevertheless, users' interpretation of emojis might vary depending on factors such as gender, cultural background, and communication style. Emoticons are a prominent means of expressing ideas and emotions among the most popular methods of communication on social media. Emojis serve as effective tools for enhancing social and emotional context in communication, hence clarifying the intended meaning of the sender. Emojis can be subjectively interpreted because various users may derive different meanings from them, particularly when considering the dimensions of communication related to sex and culture.