v2.0

↖️Up-Left Arrow EmojiUnicode: 2196 FE0F

Arrow pointing up and left

Released in The up-left arrow emoji was introduced in Unicode 1.1 in 1993 as part of the arrows block, commonly used for directional indications.

up left arrownorthwest arrowdirectional symbolnavigation iconpointing up-leftarrow emojiUnicode arrowleft-up arrowcorner arrowangle indicator

Meaning and Interpretation

The up-left arrow emoji (↖️) is a directional symbol that primarily represents movement or pointing towards the northwest, which is upwards and to the left on a compass. It is often used in digital communication to give instructions, indicate turns in maps or routes, suggest navigation in apps, or symbolize a retreat while progressing. This emoji conveys guidance, orientation, or a shift in direction, making it versatile for everyday contexts like travel, gaming, or user interfaces where precise spatial awareness is needed.

Symbolism

  • Represents the northwest direction on a compass, often indicating exploration or orientation.
  • Symbolizes retreat or a backward step while moving forward, like in strategic planning.
  • Indicates a sharp corner or turn, metaphorically representing change or pivots in life situations

Common Usage Scenarios

  • In navigation apps and maps to show users which way to go, such as in hiking or driving directions.
  • In instructional content, like assembly guides or recipes, to denote steps involving directional movements.
  • In user interfaces of apps or games to signal actions like undoing a move or navigating menus

Usage Examples in Conversation

Hey, if you're lost, just head ↖️ from the main road to find the cafe!
Turn ↖️ at the next stoplight; it's a shortcut to the beach.
Oops, I messed up—swipe ↖️ to undo that last edit.
The hidden path is ↖️ of the big tree; you'll love the view!
Go ↖️ from here for the best hiking trail; it's not too far.

Usage Guidelines and Etiquette

  • Only use it in visual or directional contexts where the audience can easily interpret the arrow's orientation.
  • Avoid using it in text-heavy environments without additional explanation to prevent confusion across devices.
  • Combine it with descriptive text for accessibility, ensuring it's not the sole means of conveying information

Related Emojis

↗️

Up-Right Arrow

Points up and right, symbolizing northeast direction or forward advancement.

↘️

Down-Right Arrow

Points down and right, indicating southeast turns or declines.

↙️

Down-Left Arrow

Points down and left, used for southwest directions or retreats.

➡️

Right Arrow

Points right, often for next steps or forward navigation.

↪️

Right Arrow Curving Left

Shows a curve, indicating a loop or return in directions.

↩️

Left Arrow Curving Right

Represents a reply or curved path in conversations or maps.

🔄

Anticlockwise Arrows

Indicates rotation or cycling, related to directional changes.