Cultural Encodings in Digital Symbols- Exploring Emoji and Sticker Pragmatics Among Chinese and Egyptian Social Media Users

Abstract

Digital symbols, like emojis and stickers, serve as integral components to computer-mediated communication across different cultures; however, their pragmatic functions are considered to be culturally encoded. This study discusses their usage on two of the most popular means of communication around the world, which are in WhatsApp and WeChat in Egypt and China respectively, based on about 50 chat samples and 13 theoretical references. After conducting a thorough comparative analysis of the digital symbols’ pragmatic functions, cultural embedding, and miscommunication risks, a distinct pattern has been detected: Chinese WeChat users prefer to use cute cartoon memes and stickers but not too many emojis to show interpersonal harmony, while, on the other hand, Egyptian WhatsApp users depend on specific types of stickers and common, repetitive emojis that relate to each individual’s community identity. Such dissimilarities come from factors such as contextuality norms, and platform affordances. The study’s final conclusion is that digital symbols work as cultural carriers, and recognizing their embedded values is essential for reducing intercultural and interpersonal miscommunication. It can highly contribute to cross-cultural pragmatics and offer practical insights.