Gen Z Daters Decode Digital Signals as ‘Virtual Body Language’

A new survey from Indian dating app QuackQuack reveals that Gen Z is redefining how romantic interest is interpreted in the digital age, placing increasing value on what’s being termed “virtual body language.” The study, based on responses from 7,500 Indian daters aged 18 to 26, highlights how subtle online behaviors—like punctuation, emoji use, and typing indicators – are becoming just as meaningful as traditional body language in dating interactions.

According to the findings, 43% of participants believe digital cues are now a key part of online courtship. The pace of replies, style of punctuation, and even how a message ends – whether with a period or trailing ellipsis – are all being closely scrutinized. Two in five female daters, for example, view a match’s sentence-ending habits as indicative of their intentions: a period suggests decisiveness, while ellipses may signal uncertainty.

Punctuation itself has emerged as a form of impression management. About 21% of users associate careful grammar with sincerity and focus, while erratic messaging is seen as a sign of multitasking or disinterest. Emoji use, too, is under the spotlight – especially among metro-based male users, 36% of whom said that measured emoji use reflects emotional clarity and engagement.

Other behaviors such as checking a match’s ‘last seen’ status or watching the typing indicator in real time are also shaping expectations and emotional reactions. Around 19% admitted to monitoring online status, equating a lack of response while someone is visibly active to being snubbed in person.

As QuackQuack CEO Ravi Mittal notes, “It is not just about what you say; it’s also about how you say it.” For Gen Z daters, those nuances are more than etiquette – they’re emotional signposts.