Is Thumbs-Up Good or Bad? The Complex Cultural Meaning of a Simple Gesture
                                
                                
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                                    3 min read                                
                            
                                In a surprising 2023 Canadian court case, a thumbs-up emoji was legally ruled as a binding contract, resulting in an $82,000 fine. This singular incident proves the complexity of what was once considered a simple gesture, leaving many to wonder: **is thumbs-up good or bad?** The answer depends entirely on context, culture, and a deeper understanding of nonverbal communication.