Understanding the Distinction Between Emojis and Emoticons

Emoji vs. Emoticon: What is the Difference?

Sometimes, when we text or chat online, we use little pictures or signs to show how we feel. Two of these are emojis and emoticons. Even though they seem alike, they are different.

History

Emoji: Emoji is a Japanese word. “E” means picture, and “moji” means character. Emojis first started in Japan in the late 1990s. Emojis are small pictures or icons. They are colorful and can show things like faces, animals, or food.

Emoticon: Emoticon is a mix of two words: “emotion” and “icon.” Emoticons came before emojis. They started in the 1980s. Emoticons use regular keyboard letters and signs to show emotions. For example, a smiley face is made with two eyes and a mouth, like this: 🙂

How to Use Them

Emoji:

• Emojis are used to show feelings or objects in a fun way.
• We use them in texts, social media, or emails.
• They are chosen from a list of icons on a phone or computer.

Emoticon:

• Emoticons are typed using a keyboard.
• They show feelings using simple signs and letters.
• They are mostly plain and not colorful.

Examples of Emoji Use

• I love pizza! 🍕
• Good morning! ☀️
• I am so happy today! 😄
• Look at this cute dog! 🐶
• Yay, it’s Friday! 🎉

Examples of Emoticon Use

• I have to study now. 🙂
• That was a funny joke! 😀
• I am feeling tired today. 😐
• Wow, that is amazing! :-O
• I’m not too sure about this. :-/

Trick to Remember the Difference

Remember, emoji means picture and is colorful. Emoticon comes from emotion and uses simple keyboard signs. Emojis are like tiny drawings, while emoticons are like clever use of letters and signs.

Summary of Usage

Emoji: Use emojis when you want to be expressive and colorful. They are easy to find and can make your message more fun.

Emoticon: Use emoticons when you want a simple way to show feelings with keyboard signs. They are quick to type and easy to understand.

Both emojis and emoticons add fun and feelings to our messages, helping us show what we feel in a new way!