crying face

This emoji is used when something sad happens. It directly shows a sad heart by shedding a tear.

Try using it when you want to express feeling upset, like after watching a sad movie or arguing with a friend. The single teardrop feels like it adds depth to the sadness.

Windows 11

Apple

😢

Google

It represents a quieter, more subdued sadness than the loudly crying face (😭). It's a sentimental emoji that can also be used when you're moved to tears by a touching story.

Across cultures, this emoji is the most universal symbol of sadness. However, it's sometimes used ironically to express 'tears of joy' when you're very moved or happy, like saying, 'I'm so happy I'm crying 😢' after your favorite idol wins an award.