⭕️
Hollow Red Circle
HOL-oh RED SUR-kul
Definitions
1
Symbol · Marking
Common
A symbol used to indicate correctness, completion, or to highlight something as approved or noteworthy. Often serves as an affirmative mark in digital communication.
Commonly used in lists, instructions, or to mark completed tasks. Can indicate a selection or correct answer.
Please put an ⭕️ next to your preferred option.
Survey instructions
The meeting is scheduled for 3pm ⭕️
Calendar notification
Functions similarly to a checkmark in many digital contexts, though with distinct visual emphasis on the circled item rather than verification.
2
Games · Challenge
Common
Represents the 'O' player in tic-tac-toe (noughts and crosses), often paired with ❌ to reference the game or to indicate opposing sides.
Used playfully in game contexts or to represent binary choices between two options.
Your turn! I'm ⭕️ and you're ❌
Gaming message
The ⭕️ vs ❌ pairing transcends language barriers and is recognized globally due to the universal popularity of tic-tac-toe.
Cultural Context
The red circle's meaning varies by context - from correctness to selection to gaming symbol - demonstrating how simple geometric shapes adapt meaning based on contextual use.
In digital interfaces, the hollow red circle often functions as a selection indicator, particularly in multiple-choice questions or voting systems.
Regional Variations
United Kingdom
Often called 'nought' in the context of the game 'noughts and crosses' (tic-tac-toe in American English).
Generational Usage
Gen_X: Used practically for selection purposes or in digital versions of familiar games like tic-tac-toe.
Gen_Z: Used in gaming contexts, particularly for tic-tac-toe references. Also appears in TikTok challenges as a targeting symbol.
Older: Typically used literally as a circling tool to highlight information, similar to physical red pen circling.
Millennials: Common in workplace communication for marking tasks, highlighting information, or in casual gaming references.
Common Combinations
⭕️❌
Represents tic-tac-toe (noughts and crosses) or opposing choices.
Universal gaming reference that transcends language barriers.
⭕️✅
Indicates multiple correct options or approved items.
Used in instructional or educational content to mark correct items.
⭕️🎯
Hitting a target perfectly or achieving a goal.
Used in achievement contexts or to indicate precision.