I just saw a picture of a cat stuck in a box. Hahahaha!
A lot of people these days seem to think that instead of the impersonal LOL or ROFL used long ago in the early 21st century, typing out laughter is a better way to convey emotion. Every time I see it, however, I can't help but think that the person who typed out that message had on the same blank stare that I get watching Jeopardy. Unaware yet still willing to make it look like they were paying attention. It reminds me of Khyan's sketch about the internet. It is a rare case in which text gets across more emotion than facial expression. So, what do we think of this? When you see a hahaha somewhere, do you imagine that person actually laughed, or do you accept the fact that it's just an illusion to make you believe they laughed?
The Sketch:
It's so interesting what changes texting and IM'ing has introduced to our language. I have many friends who include an "lol" in every text and every message, as a kind of signifier of approval, in place of a period. So much so in fact, that if I get a text from certain friends without an "lol," I perceive it as being serious, or even significant. It's like people are subconsciously compensating for the fact that text cannot communicate tone, but still want to communicate their approval or happiness. If "lol" has been reduced to mild approval, it makes sense that there has to be a stronger indicator for real cheer. I have one friend who always uses the expression "ha" which I never liked at all. No matter how often she includes "ha" in a text, I cannot help but think of Nelson from the Simpsons, which I'm sure is not what she is going for. "Hahaha" sounds sarcastic to me, but I've learned that I don't get this stuff anymore, and just to learn and go along with whatever the young people are doing.
Thank you - I enjoyed that video. When I'm amused, I will often write "tee hee". I also write "laugh out loud" in sentences, like here. I've noticed also people writing those words to me. For example, recently, here. Those exchanges were wonderful for me. I love it when people acknowledge their laughter in words. It does seem to have much more meaning that LOL.
I too usually convey my reactions with accuracy. Nothing ever legitimately makes me "ROTFLOL!" on the internet. I usually smirk a bit at the good stuff, and chuckle at the great stuff. I don't know why someone would care enough to convey something different.
I use lol as a response to a funny text or something. Showing that I thought what was said was funny, but not having a witty response.
Just for your interest, we have spoken on this before. I remember a particularly high quality response by fireballs619.
I agree that hahahaha sounds forced. More so than LOL or ROLF in my opinion. LOL is written because it's quick bu hahahaha doesn't really have that same benefit.