YJSSH
Vol. 1 No. 3 (2025): Young Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities

Semantic Functions of Emojis in Computer-Mediated Communication: A Pragmatic and Contextual Analysis

Gabriella Pardede (Unknown)
Damanik , Bernieke Anggita Ristia (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
14 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the semantic functions of emojis in computer-mediated communication (CMC) across platforms such as WhatsApp, Twitter, and Instagram. Drawing on a library research method supported by selected conversation samples and relevant scholarly literature, the research explores how emojis contribute to meaning-making in digital interactions. Findings reveal that emojis perform diverse semantic roles, including emotional amplification, lexical substitution, tone modulation, and social signaling. Rather than merely decorative, emojis function as context-sensitive linguistic elements that enhance or replace textual meaning. However, their interpretation is shaped by various factors such as platform norms, interpersonal relationships, and cultural background, often resulting in ambiguity or miscommunication. The study concludes that emojis are dynamic, pragmatic tools in digital discourse that reflect the ongoing evolution of language in online environments. Their strategic use highlights the importance of multimodal literacy in contemporary communication.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

yjssh

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Social Sciences

Description

Young Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (YJSSH) is an academic journal which focuses on social and humanistic issues, both of a conceptual and an empirical nature. The journal uses a multidisciplinary perspective with a focus on the main issue. The journal is open to all to contribute to it, ...