Cool MateSymbol
UK //ˈsɪmbəl//US //ˈsɪmbəl//
Definition
A mark or character used to represent an idea, object, or relationship.
In simple words: A sign or picture that represents something else.
Examples
- The heart is a common symbol of love.
- In ancient cultures, animals were used as symbols.
- A dove is often seen as a symbol of peace.
- This painting contains many symbols that tell a story.
- The dollar sign is a symbol of money.
- National flags are symbols of a country's identity.
Usage notes
Used frequently in writing and speech to represent ideas, concepts, or objects. Appropriate in academic, formal, and informal contexts.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of a 'symbol' as a 'synonym' for an idea.
Collocations
- national symbol
- cultural symbol
- symbol of peace
- mathematical symbol
- symbolic meaning
Synonyms
- sign
- emblem
- token
- representative
- marker
Antonyms
- literal
- actual
- concrete
Common mistakes
- Confusing with 'sign', which is more general.
- Using 'symbol' only for images, forgetting it can represent ideas too.
- Omitting 'a' or 'the' before 'symbol' in sentences.