B11K

Represent

UK /["/ˌreprɪˈzent/","/ˌreprɪˈzents/","/ˌreprɪˈzentɪd/","/ˌreprɪˈzentɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˌreprɪˈzent/","/ˌreprɪˈzents/","/ˌreprɪˈzentɪd/","/ˌreprɪˈzentɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to be a member of a group of people and act or speak for them at an event, a meeting, etc.

In simple words: to show or be an example of something

Examples

  • It is important to represent your ideas clearly during the presentation.
  • The painting aims to represent the beauty of nature.
  • She was chosen to represent her country in the international competition.
  • The model was designed to represent various aspects of modern architecture.
  • In her speech, she did well to represent the views of her community.
  • The data will represent the trends observed over the last decade.

Usage notes

Use 'represent' when talking about symbols, images, or people acting on behalf of others. Avoid in very casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

represent + object

Memory hint

Think of a 're-present' as showing something again.

Collocations

  • strongly
  • well
  • equally
  • legally
  • ably
  • adequately
  • choose somebody to
  • elect somebody to
  • select somebody to
  • accurately
  • faithfully
  • fairly
  • be intended to
  • purport to
  • seek to
  • as
  • accurately
  • faithfully
  • fairly
  • be intended to
  • purport to
  • seek to
  • as
  • accurately
  • faithfully
  • fairly
  • be intended to
  • purport to
  • seek to
  • as

Synonyms

  • be typical of

Antonyms

  • misrepresent
  • hide

Common mistakes

  • Using 'represent' incorrectly as a noun (it is a verb).
  • Confusing 'represent' with 'present'.
  • Using 'represent' without an object.