10 Texting Habits That Scream “I’m Old,” According to Gen Z

10 Texting Habits That Scream “I’m Old,” According to Gen Z

Texting has become an integral part of communication, especially among the younger generation. However, certain texting habits can inadvertently reveal one’s age. Gen Z, known for their dynamic and evolving communication style, often finds some traditional texting practices outdated or even amusing. This post explores ten specific texting habits that Gen Z associates with older generations. From using the classic smiley emoticons to leaving voicemails, each habit offers a glimpse into how swiftly communication norms are changing. While these habits might have been the norm in the past, they now evoke a sense of nostalgia or even humor among the youth.

1. Sending a lone “👍” (thumbs-up) as a full response

A lone thumbs-up emoji is often interpreted by Gen Z as dismissive or cold. While older generations may see it as a simple acknowledgment, younger texters prefer more engaging responses. The thumbs-up can convey a sense of finality, stopping a conversation in its tracks. For Gen Z, communication is about connection and interaction, not just acknowledgment.

The thumbs-up may also feel like a brush-off, leaving the recipient craving more in-depth interaction. With so many emojis at their fingertips, Gen Z opts for more expressive and varied options to convey emotion and engagement in their messages.

2. Using the “😂” (crying-laughing) emoji unironically / overusing it

The crying-laughing emoji, once a staple in online conversations, now feels overused and outdated to Gen Z. While it still holds popularity, younger texters lean towards more creative expressions. Emojis like the skull or phrases like “I’m dead” reflect a fresher style, full of irony and humor.

Overusing this emoji might signal a lack of creativity or an adherence to older texting norms. Gen Z values originality and often seeks new ways to express laughter and amusement. The emoji landscape is vast, and sticking to the same icon can dull the vibrancy of digital communication.

3. Putting a period at the end of texts (“Okay.” vs “Okay”)

The simple addition of a period at the end of a text message can change its tone dramatically. To Gen Z, a period can seem abrupt or even passive-aggressive. It conveys a sense of seriousness that feels out of place in casual texting.

Where older texters might see it as grammatically correct or simply a habit, younger generations perceive it as unnecessarily formal. Texting is about fluidity and ease, and the period can introduce a rigidity that disrupts the conversational flow. It’s a subtle detail, but one that can significantly impact the perceived tone of a message.

4. Using multiple ellipses (“…”, “…..”) in regular chat

Ellipses can add a dramatic flair to any message, but overuse in texting can feel disjointed and confusing. Gen Z often refers to this as “Boomer ellipses,” indicating its association with older texters. While intended to create a pause or suspense, excessive use can muddle the message’s clarity.

Where older generations might feel ellipses add personality, younger texters find them distracting. Texting thrives on clarity and succinctness, and ellipses can disrupt this balance. The art of texting lies in its brevity, and ellipses introduce an unnecessary complexity that can hinder smooth communication.

5. Writing texts like formal letters (greetings, signatures, long paragraphs)

Texting has revolutionized how we communicate, emphasizing brevity and immediacy. However, some still approach texting like letter writing. Formal greetings and sign-offs can make texts feel cumbersome, especially to Gen Z. This style, rich in detail and structure, contrasts sharply with the casual tone of modern texting.

While it may demonstrate politeness, it often feels excessive and antiquated. Younger texters favor quick, spontaneous exchanges that mirror face-to-face chats. The formal letter style can slow down interactions, creating a barrier to the fluidity that characterizes contemporary communication. For Gen Z, less is often more.

6. Capitalizing Random Words / Emphasis in texting

In the realm of texting, capitalization is a tool for emphasis, but random use can seem peculiar. To Gen Z, unnecessary capitalization feels like shouting or trying too hard to make a point. It interrupts the natural flow of text, creating a jarring reading experience.

While older texters might use it to highlight important words, younger generations rely on emojis or context for emphasis. This shift reflects a broader trend towards minimalism in digital communication. Texting is about fluidity and the random capitalization can disrupt the natural rhythm of a conversation, making it seem forced or awkward.

7. Double-spacing after periods (i.e. typing two spaces after a full stop)

Double-spacing after a period is a habit rooted in typewriter days, yet it persists among some who learned typing on these machines. To Gen Z, this practice feels antiquated and unnecessary. In the digital age, single spacing suffices, making double spaces look out of place.

This subtle habit can reveal one’s age to younger texters, who value simplicity and efficiency. Texting is about quick exchanges, and double-spacing interrupts the seamless flow of messages. While it might seem like a minor detail, it highlights how deeply ingrained habits can persist, even as technology evolves.

8. Leaving voicemails instead of sending a voice/text message

In today’s fast-paced world, voicemails are becoming a relic of the past. Gen Z, who grew up with instant messaging, views voicemails as time-consuming and cumbersome. Sending a voice or text message is quicker, more efficient, and less intrusive.

Older generations may see voicemails as personal, but younger texters perceive them as a burden. Texting offers an immediacy and convenience that voicemails lack. The shift away from voicemails highlights a broader trend towards more direct and efficient communication methods. For Gen Z, the preference is clear: keep it short, sweet, and to the point.

9. Using “:-)” or classic smiley emoticons

Classic emoticons like “:-)” once ruled digital conversations but are now seen as outdated by Gen Z. Emojis offer a richer, more diverse range of expressions, rendering classic smileys nearly obsolete. Younger generations appreciate the nuanced emotions that emojis can convey, moving beyond the simplicity of basic emoticons.

While older texters may find comfort in these familiar symbols, younger texters view them as relics of a bygone era. The evolution of digital language reflects the ever-changing dynamics of online communication. Gen Z’s preference for emojis underscores a desire for more vibrant and expressive exchanges.

10. Texting with overly “proper” style (correct grammar, no emotion, stiff tone)

Precision in language is admirable, but overly formal texting can feel detached and robotic. Gen Z favors a more relaxed, emotive style that reflects genuine personality. Perfect grammar and a stiff tone may convey professionalism, but they can also create distance.

Younger texters prefer messages that feel human and personal, often infused with emojis and casual language. This approach fosters a sense of connection and relatability. The contrast between formal and informal texting highlights a generational shift in communication preferences. For Gen Z, authenticity and warmth in texting are key to meaningful interaction.