The developers behind the little icons that we add to practically every text have come out and dropped a bombshell: we’ve been doing it wrong. So wrong. They’ve let us in on what they’re really meant to represent – but we’re sure you’ll agree that in some cases, the wrong way is totally the right way.

What You Think It Means: A woman cheering excitedly, like the way you would at a Beyoncé concert.

What It Really Means: A woman making a giant “OK” sign with her arms. Riiight.

What You Think It Means: An ice-cream sundae, obviously!

What It Really Means: Shaved ice, apparently.

What You Think It Means: Tears. Or rain. Or just plain old water.

What It Really Means: Splashing sweat. Ew!

 

What You Think It Means: Proper sad and crying – “woe is me.”

What It Really Means: Stressed, with sweat dripping down your face. More sweat?!

 

What You Think It Means: “Wow, look at the view!” Like you’re framing an image for a photo.

What It Really Means: A person raising both hands in celebration (we admit, we can kind of see that now).

 

What You Think It Means: Person with hands together, praying – “Please make Nickleback stop making music.”

What It Really Means: This can signify “Sorry”, or an apology, but is also referred to as the high-five emoji. This is a game-changer, people!

 

What You Think It Means: A “Look how good I look” hair flick. Or, “Whatevs. Care factor: zero.”

What It Really Means: An information desk person holding out her hand as if to say “how can I help you?” We can’t even.

 

What You Think It Means: Jazz hands or “I’m totally above this”.

What It Really Means: A hug. What. The. Actual. Heck, Emoji developers.  

 

What You Think It Means: Another emoji to use when you’re really upset and might break into tears.

What It Really Means: You’re tired. That droplet of water is actually supposed to be drool!

 

What You Think It Means: Clearly, it’s a shooting star. Or a sparkle.

What It Really Means: Dizzy. Like you’ve just knocked your head and need to sit down.