We have all been there.
You are in a text conversation with someone and for whatever reason there is no clear way to end it without seeming rude.
In such instances you or the person on the other end may choose to send an emoji as a way of saying, “I’m done here.” Or perhaps asking, “Are we done here?”
This is what is called “the final emoji.” It’s a face saving way out for everyone involved. It saves the sender from saying, “Look, I’ve got to go.” And if you are receiving the emoji it obviously requires no response. An emoji is not a sentence, a word, a question - it’s just the end.
It’s important to recognize it as such - from a personal communications perspective - and move on. Do not hit the tennis ball back over the net in this case.
Bottom Line: Emails, texting and other forms of electronic messaging are still a new development in human communication and not everyone has mastered its etiquette, but we can tell you that when you receive an emoji after a long period of back and forth it usually means the sender is moving on. You should too.
Respect the final emoji.