What Does the ???? (Finger Pointing Down) Emoji Mean?

• Most of the time, a ???? gestures to the message under it to say, “This is important!”
• Pair a ???? with a ???? or ???? when you’re feeling blue and don’t really want to chat.
• Put a ???? in a social media caption or text when you’re talking about the South or giving directions.

???? (Finger Pointing Down) Emoji Meanings

A ???? points to the message below it. This emoji often emphasizes that the text under it is important. If someone sends a ???? to you and it shows that they’re still typing, be patient! There’s likely something interesting or eye-opening coming your way.

The ???? conveys sad or down feelings. When someone’s feeling low, they may pair a ???? with a ???? or ???? to say, “I’m sad.” This is sometimes easier than writing out how they’re doing, especially if they’re not up for a conversation. “Can I get any lower than this? ????????” “I don’t really want to talk right now ????”

A ???? represents going south or down below. If someone is explaining directions or instructions, they may use this emoji to say, “Head south” or “Go downstairs.” This usage isn’t as common as others, but it may be paired with other hand emojis when giving directions. “We’re going ???? for the winter to visit my grandparents.” “Just go down into the basement ????, and then it’ll be on your left ????”

How to Use the ???? (Finger Pointing Down) Emoji

Send a ???? before an important message. Have something super important to tell your bestie? Let them know the news of their life is coming by sending a single ???? right before the big reveal.

Use a ???? when you’re feeling blue. Everyone has bad days, and sometimes it’s hard to describe how you’re feeling. Drop a single ???? when someone texts you, “How are you?” or pair it with a ???? or ???? to say, “I’m sad.” “Let’s just say it hasn’t been a good day ????????” “????????????????????????”

Drop a ???? if you’re in the South. Posting a pic on Instagram highlighting your favorite Southern food or a recent trip? Put a ???? in your caption to say, “I was down south, bro!” “Nothing beats Aunt Sue’s fried chicken ????????” “The best part about going????? The ☀️!”

Pair a ???? with directions to help a friend out. We get it—giving directions can be confusing, especially over text! To clarify things, try using hand emojis (including the ????) that correspond with your written instructions. “Okay, go???? a level, and you should see my car.” “Take a ???? on Main, and then go ???? 5th Avenue.”

Variations

Customize your ???? to match your skin tone. This is a great way to personalize your emoji selection even more! There are many options, so pick whichever one you resonate with the most, or stick with the classic yellow hand. ???????? : Light skin tone ???????? : Medium-light skin tone ???????? : Medium skin tone ???????? : Medium-Dark skin tone ???????? : Dark skin tone