candle
Unicode: 1F56F
Description
A person standing upright, with both arms raised slightly and palms facing forward, as if offering a greeting or performing a polite bow. The figure is typically depicted with a neutral expression.
Group:
Objects > light & video
Status:
unqualified
Emotion:
Often conveys politeness, respect, a greeting, or a slight bow. It can also be used to acknowledge someone's presence gracefully.
Backstory
This emoji was introduced in Unicode 6.0 (2010). While its official name is 'Person Bowing Deeply', its generic depiction allows for broader interpretations beyond a purely ceremonial bow, encompassing various polite or deferential gestures.
Usage Examples
- Formal greeting: 'Good to see you again! 🙇'
- Expressing respect: 'I truly admire your work. 🙇'
- Polite acknowledgement: 'Thank you for your understanding. 🙇'
- Apology (less common, usually paired with 🙏): 'Sorry for the inconvenience. 🙇'
Cultural Differences
Western culture:
Less commonly used for bowing, sometimes interpreted as a formal greeting, a slight curtsy, or a gesture of offering/presenting.
East Asian culture:
Strongly associated with bowing as a gesture of respect, greeting, apology, or gratitude. It's a fundamental part of social etiquette in Japan and South Korea, signifying deference or formality.