The result highlights how a simple facial expression has become a universal way for users around the world to express puzzlement, sarcasm, or resignation.
When asked about their favorite emoji, many respondents said they often use a crying face “because it’s cute” or a sleepy one “when I’m tired.” However, it is the puzzled-looking emoji that dominates usage across regions, particularly among Generation Z users.
“It’s the most popular one; everyone uses it,” said one participant from Malaysia. Another, from China’s Fujian Province, described it as “a cute, moe face,” while a man from Shandong Province explained that his sister often used it to “mock” him.
The emoji ranked first in countries including the United States and France, with users typically employing it to convey feelings of confusion or disbelief. “It’s a ‘Why?’ face,” said another user from Fujian.
Other popular emojis also reflect nuanced emotional communication. “This is the one I use a lot,” said a user from Hong Kong, referring to a resigned-looking face. “It means something like ‘Oh well.’ I also use a crying face a lot, especially when I’m tired of studying or have too much homework and want to complain to friends.”
These findings underscore how emojis have become a language of their own — a powerful tool for expressing feelings that transcend cultural and linguistic boundaries.
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