WRFH/Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM - Grammar Minute: Against Emoji in Emails

Episode Date: March 25, 2025

That smiley face isn't conveying what you think it is. Learn more on today's episode of Grammar Minute!

Welcome to the Grammar Minute, where we're saving the English language 60 seconds out of time. I'm Lauren Smith and I'm sometimes tempted to put a little smiley face at the end of a blunt email, as if a colon and parenthesis are going to somehow soften the blow. Sometimes I give in to that temptation, but I'm here to warn you, do as I say, not as I do, and don't put emoji into your emails. The reason for this is simple. Tone doesn't carry well over text and a misplaced smiley face often comes across as passive-aggressive. You thought you were being friendly when you wrote,

Where are the budget proposals? Smiley face, but the tone of your smile is at odds with the tone of your text, creating unnecessary confusion. If you want the budget proposals, just ask for the budget proposals. Don't try to replicate in-person cues with bits of text or pictures. Many of us send emails when we could walk two doors down and talk in person. Text is no replacement for a genuine conversation. That's your Grammar Minute.

Visit thegrammerminit.com for more tips and tricks. Thank you.