Did you know that over 10 billion emojis are sent every day? These tiny digital icons have become a universal language, crossing borders and cultures. But here’s the catch: many of us might be using them wrong!
You’ve probably used emojis to add a bit of fun to your messages. Maybe you’ve sent a peach to talk about fruit or a face with tears to show you’re sad. Well, you might be surprised to learn that these emojis could mean something completely different to the person receiving your message.
Why does this happen? It’s all about cultural differences and how meanings change over time. Emojis started in Japan, and when they spread to other parts of the world, people started using them in new ways. This can lead to some pretty funny – or sometimes awkward – misunderstandings.
In this article, we’re going to uncover the true meanings behind 10 popular emojis. You’ll learn what they were originally meant to represent and how people use them today.
15 Emoji Symbols You Might Be Using Wrong
1. Information Desk Person 🙋♀️
Ever sent this emoji thinking you’re being sassy or flipping your hair? Well, you might want to think again! This little character is actually meant to represent someone at an information desk, ready to help.
Imagine you’re lost in a mall, looking for that perfect store. You spot an information desk, and the friendly attendant raises their hand, as if to say, “How can I help you?” That’s exactly what this emoji is all about. So next time you use it, remember you’re not throwing shade – you’re offering a helping hand!
2. See-No-Evil Monkey 🙈
This cute little monkey might be your go-to for those “Oops, I messed up!” moments, but there’s more to it than that. It’s actually part of a famous trio – the “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” monkeys.
You know those wooden figurines of three monkeys, each covering a different part of their face? This emoji is the “see no evil” one, covering its eyes to avoid seeing anything bad. So while it’s perfect for those moments when you want to hide from embarrassment, it’s also about choosing not to witness negative things.
3. Woman With Bunny Ears 👯♀️
If you’ve been using this to show off your bestie goals, you might be in for a surprise. This emoji has a bit of a saucy history! It actually originated in Japan to represent what we in the West might recognize as Playboy bunnies.
That’s right – those attractive women in bunny costumes you might have seen in old movies or magazines. It’s less about friendship and more about glamour and allure. Interesting how meanings can change across cultures, isn’t it?
4. Astonished Face 😲
Those X eyes might make you think this emoji is feeling under the weather, or even worse. But don’t worry, it’s not about to keel over! This wide-eyed, open-mouthed face is all about shock and surprise.
Think of it as the emoji equivalent of a cartoon character’s jaw dropping to the floor. It’s for those moments when something completely unexpected happens, leaving you speechless. So next time you’re utterly amazed, this is your go-to emoji!
5. Dizzy Symbol 🌀
Ever used this swirly symbol to add a touch of magic to your message? Well, you might have been sending a different signal than you intended! This isn’t a shooting star or a spell being cast – it’s actually meant to show dizziness.
Remember those old cartoons where a character would get bonked on the head, and little stars or spirals would circle around? That’s exactly what this emoji is depicting. So it’s perfect for those moments when you’re feeling a bit woozy or overwhelmed.
6. Nail Polish 💅
This emoji often gets used as a symbol of sass or attitude, but its original meaning is much simpler. It’s just showing someone applying nail polish – no hidden meanings or extra attitude involved!
Of course, language evolves, and so do emojis. So while its official meaning might be straightforward, don’t be surprised if people interpret a bit of fabulousness when you use it. After all, who doesn’t feel a bit glam with freshly painted nails?
7. Open Hands Symbol 🤗
“Jazz hands!” you might think when you see this emoji. But hold onto your top hat – this isn’t about showbiz at all. These open hands are actually meant to symbolize a warm welcome or an offer of embrace.
It’s like when you see an old friend and open your arms wide for a hug. That’s the feeling this emoji is trying to capture. So while it might look like it’s ready for a musical number, it’s really just giving you a big, warm, virtual hug!
8. Person With Folded Hands 🙏
Here’s an emoji with some cultural nuances. In the West, we often use it for prayer or pleading. But in Japan, where emojis originated, this gesture can mean both “please” and “thank you.”
And just to add another layer, some folks see it as a high five! So, depending on where you are and who you’re talking to, this emoji could be saying, “Please pass the salt,” “Thank you so much,” “I’m praying for you,” or “High five, buddy!” Talk about versatile!
9. Roasted Sweet Potato 🍠
If you’ve been scratching your head wondering what kind of nut this is supposed to be, you’re not alone. But surprise – it’s not a nut at all! This is actually a roasted sweet potato, a popular snack in Japan.
See that purple-ish outer layer? That’s the skin of certain sweet potato varieties. In Japan, these are often sold by street vendors in the fall and winter. So next time you want to share your love for this tasty tuber, you know which emoji to use!
10. Name Badge 📛
Last but not least, we have the mysterious red shape that often gets mistaken for a tulip or even a flame. But would you believe it’s actually a name badge?
In Japan, it’s common for kindergarteners to wear these red, flame-shaped name badges pinned to their clothes. It’s a way to help teachers and other kids learn their names. So while it might look like an abstract design to some of us, in Japan, it’s as recognizable as a “Hello, my name is…” sticker!
11. Pile of Poo 💩
You might think this emoji is just for gross situations or insults, but there’s more to it! In Japan, the poo emoji is actually considered cute and lucky. It’s often used as a playful symbol, similar to how we might use a smiley face.
The association with luck comes from a Japanese word play: the word for poo (unko) sounds similar to a word meaning “to have good luck” (un ga ii). So next time you see this emoji, remember it might be wishing you good fortune!
12. Person Tipping Hand 💁♀️
Often called the “sassy girl” emoji, many people use this to express attitude or sassiness. However, its original meaning is quite different. This emoji is meant to represent a person at an information desk, similar to the Information Desk Person we discussed earlier.
The hand gesture is meant to indicate offering information or help, not throwing sass. So while it’s commonly used to add a bit of flair to messages, its intended use is much more helpful and less snarky!
13. Weary Face 😩
With its furrowed brow and open mouth, you might think this emoji is expressing anger or frustration. But it’s actually meant to show tiredness or weariness.
Think of it as the face you’d make after a long, exhausting day. It’s less “I’m mad!” and more “I’m so done with today.” So next time you’re feeling completely worn out, this is your go-to emoji!
14. Face With Steam From Nose 😤
This emoji often gets used to show anger, with the steam interpreted as smoke coming out of someone’s ears. However, its original meaning in Japanese culture is quite different. In anime and manga, this expression often indicates triumph or pride.
The “steam” is actually meant to represent a snort of triumph, like a bull pawing the ground before charging. So while it might look angry to Western eyes, in its original context, it’s more about feeling pumped up and ready to take on a challenge!
15. Raising Hands 🙌
Many people use this emoji to represent a high five or celebration. While that’s not entirely wrong, its original meaning is a bit more specific. This emoji is based on a gesture meaning “banzai” in Japanese, which is a celebratory cheer similar to “hurray!”
It’s often used to express joy, excitement, or congratulations. So whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or celebrating a friend’s success, this emoji has got you covered!
The takeaway
Emojis have become a universal digital language, but their meanings aren’t always as clear-cut as we might think. From the Information Desk Person 🙋♀️ to the Pile of Poo 💩, these tiny icons often carry surprising cultural significance or original intentions that differ from common usage.
Understanding the true meanings behind emojis can greatly enhance our digital communication, helping us avoid misunderstandings and express ourselves more accurately. It’s important to remember that emoji interpretations can vary across cultures and evolve over time.
By taking a moment to learn about the emojis we use most often, we can make our messages more intentional and effective.
Whether you’re expressing joy, offering help, or simply adding some flair to your text, knowing the story behind each emoji can enrich your digital interactions.
So, next time you’re about to send an emoji, consider its original meaning. You might just communicate in a whole new way!
FAQ
What does the “Information Desk Person” emoji really represent?
Despite its common use to signify sassiness, the “Information Desk Person” emoji is actually intended to depict a helpful person, akin to someone at an information desk asking, “How may I help you?”
Why do people misunderstand the “See-No-Evil Monkey” emoji?
Many people use the “See-No-Evil Monkey” to express embarrassment or a playful “oops.” However, it’s part of the traditional “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” set, intended to symbolize a desire to avoid witnessing anything bad.
Is the “Woman With Bunny Ears” emoji related to partying and friendship?
While commonly used to express fun and friendship, this emoji actually has roots in the Japanese depiction of attractive women with bunny ears, similar to the concept of Playboy bunnies in Western culture.
What does the “Astonished Face” emoji mean, and how is it different from the “Dizzy Face”?
The “Astonished Face” emoji is meant to convey shock and surprise, not death or illness as some believe due to its Xs for eyes. The “Dizzy Face,” which looks similar, should be used to express dizziness or confusion.
What is the true meaning behind the “Roasted Sweet Potato” emoji?
It represents a roasted sweet potato, a popular snack in Japan during the fall season, often depicted with purple skin in the emoji version, contrary to being mistaken for a nut.
How should the “Name Badge” emoji be interpreted?
Often confused with a tulip or fire, the “Name Badge” emoji is actually a representation of a typical name badge as used in Japan, especially by kindergarteners, and not as weirdly shaped as it might appear in Western contexts.
