Emojis in EFL Communication: An Analysis оf the Language-Like Functions in Emoji Use by Saudi Female Learners

Abstract

Emojis are fast becoming an integral part of communication and taking the shape of a ‘language’ in its own right. This raises pertinent questions as to the future look of formal digital communication and the purposes for which this visual input is used by EFL learners. This mixed methods study investigated what prompts female EFL learners at Qassim University to use emojis, the communicative functions they fulfill, and whether their use hinders or facilitates communication. A WhatsApp group was created. A total of 21 female students were added to the group. The researcher observed their chat for 4 weeks. An interview was also used to collect data on the purposes and functions of using emojis. Results indicate that there are nine broad functions that are fulfilled by emojis when used by EFL learners: expression of emotions, enhancing tone, visual quotient, regional variations, efficient communication, creativity, word substitution, peer prompt, and playfulness. Further, irrespective of the purpose of emoji use, the participants see it as an enhancement of their English communication on a formal platform, and that fears that visuals can fully replace the text for foreign language learners are totally unfounded. This study recommends the investigation of using emojis for developing students' autonomy.