Meaning of Symbolic
containing symbols, or being used as a symbol
In simple words: Representing something else, often with a deeper meaning.
Symbolic in a sentence
- He shook his fist in a symbolic gesture of defiance.
- The ceremony has a deep symbolic meaning.
- The new regulations are largely symbolic *(= they will not have any real effect)*.
- The dove is symbolic of peace.
- The case became symbolic of the problem of violence against women.
- The role of monarch is a purely symbolic one.
- These two objects are symbolic of life and death.
- This is a gruesome and heavily symbolic tale.
How to use Symbolic
Use 'symbolic' to describe something that stands for something else, especially in art or literature. For example, a dove is often seen as a symbolic representation of peace. Avoid using it in very casual conversations.
Grammar pattern
standalone adjective
Memory hint
Think of 'symbol pic' — an image representing another idea.
Related words
Synonyms for Symbolic
- representative
- metaphorical
- indicative
- emblematic
- significant
Opposites of Symbolic
- literal
- nonrepresentational
Common mistakes with Symbolic
- Confusing with 'symbolize' - 'symbolic' is an adjective.
- Using 'symbolic' incorrectly for literal meanings.
- Overusing in casual conversations where simpler words could suffice.
Symbolic appears in
Symbolic in other languages
- Arabicالعربية
رمزي
يمثل شيئًا آخر، غالبًا بمعنى أعمق.
- Bengaliবাংলা
প্রতীকী
অন্য কিছুর প্রতিনিধিত্ব করে, প্রায়শই গভীর অর্থ সহ।
- GermanDeutsch
Symbolisch
Etwas anderes darstellend, oft mit einer tieferen Bedeutung.
- SpanishEspañol
Simbólico
Que representa otra cosa, a menudo con un significado más profundo.
- Persianفارسی
نمادین
نمایانگر چیزی دیگر، معمولاً با معنای عمیقتر.
- FrenchFrançais
Symbolique
Qui représente autre chose, souvent avec un sens plus profond.
- Hindiहिन्दी
प्रतीकात्मक
किसी और चीज़ का प्रतिनिधित्व करना, अक्सर गहरे अर्थ के साथ।
- ItalianItaliano
Simbolico
Che rappresenta qualcos'altro, spesso con un significato più profondo.
- PortuguesePortuguês
Simbólico
Representando outra coisa, muitas vezes com um significado mais profundo.
- RussianРусский
Символический
Представляющий что-то другое, часто с более глубоким смыслом.
- Urduاردو
علامتی، رمزی
کسی اور چیز کی نمائندگی کرنا، اکثر گہرے معنی کے ساتھ۔
- Chinese中文
象征性的, 代表性的
代表别的东西,通常有更深的含义。
More words like Symbolic
- Representative
- Significant
- AbolishC1
To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution.
- AbortionC1
the deliberate ending of a pregnancy at an early stage
- AbsenceC1
the fact of somebody being away from a place where they are usually expected to be; the occasion or period of time when somebody is away
- AbsentC1
not in a place because of illness, etc.
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Frequently asked questions about Symbolic
What does Symbolic mean?
Representing something else, often with a deeper meaning.
What is the definition of Symbolic?
containing symbols, or being used as a symbol
How do you use Symbolic in a sentence?
He shook his fist in a symbolic gesture of defiance.
Can you give another example of Symbolic?
The ceremony has a deep symbolic meaning.
What are synonyms for Symbolic?
Common alternatives include representative, metaphorical, indicative, emblematic, significant.
What is the opposite of Symbolic?
Opposite meanings include literal, nonrepresentational.
What words go with Symbolic?
It commonly pairs with be, seem, become, deeply, heavily, highly, of.
What are common mistakes when using Symbolic?
Confusing with 'symbolize' - 'symbolic' is an adjective. Using 'symbolic' incorrectly for literal meanings. Overusing in casual conversations where simpler words could suffice.
How do you pronounce Symbolic?
US: /["/sɪmˈbɑːlɪk/"]/, UK: /["/sɪmˈbɒlɪk/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
When should I use Symbolic?
Use 'symbolic' to describe something that stands for something else, especially in art or literature. For example, a dove is often seen as a symbolic representation of peace. Avoid using it in very casual conversations.
What CEFR level is Symbolic?
"Symbolic" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.

