⏩️
Fast-Forward Button
fast-FOR-wuhrd BUH-tuhn
Definitions
1
Media · Controls
Common
Represents a fast-forward button on media players, used to indicate advancing quickly through content or skipping ahead.
Often used when sharing media content or discussing time-saving measures.
Can we ⏩️ through the boring parts?
WhatsApp message about watching a video
Life hack: ⏩️ podcasts to 1.5x speed to save time
Twitter/X post
Originated from physical media players but maintained relevance in digital interfaces and streaming services.
2
Conceptual · Time
Common
Metaphorically represents wanting to speed through time, skip to the future, or move quickly past unwanted experiences.
Used to express desire to skip boring, difficult, or unpleasant situations.
Wish I could ⏩️ to the weekend already
Instagram story on Monday
Reflects modern impatience and desire for instant gratification in digital culture.
Evolution Timeline
2015
Gained popularity with rise of streaming services allowing users to skip content.
Netflix and other platforms implementing skip features.
2018
Shifted to metaphorical usage about wanting to skip life events.
Social media adoption of emoji beyond literal media controls.
Cultural Context
Represents the transition from physical media controls to digital interfaces, maintaining visual continuity across technological generations.
Symbolizes modern impatience and desire to control time, reflecting acceleration of pace in digital society.
Regional Variations
United States
Often used in reference to binge-watching streaming content and skipping commercials.
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Primarily used for literal media controls and occasionally for skipping unpleasant tasks.
Gen_Z: Used metaphorically for wanting to skip boring life events; common in TikTok and Instagram Stories.
Older: Less frequently used; typically only in literal media control contexts when discussing TV or videos.
Millennials: Used both literally for media and metaphorically for work meetings or unwanted social events.
Common Combinations
⏩️⏩️
Extra speed or urgency to skip ahead quickly.
Used when particularly eager to skip content or time.
⏩️➡️
Moving forward quickly to the next item or topic.
Used in instructional content or tutorials.
⏩️🙄
Wanting to skip boring or tedious content/situations.
Expresses impatience with current circumstances.