A2noun1K

Symbol

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.