Word
emblematic
Phoneticsem·blem·at·ic, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌɛmbɫəˈmætɪk/
UK/ˌɛmbəlmˈætɪk/
Definition
adj. representing a specific idea, quality, or group. You use this to describe something that is a perfect example of a larger thing.
adj. representing or serving as a symbol of a particular quality, idea, or group. Often used to describe a specific instance that perfectly captures the essence of a broader category.
Examples
“The red flag is an emblematic symbol of the country.”
“The old factory building is an emblematic example of the city's industrial past.”
“The artist's use of the dove is emblematic of peace, though the painting's dark tones suggest a more complex and nuanced interpretation of the theme.”
Examples
simple
“The red flag is an emblematic symbol of the country.”
contextual
“The old factory building is an emblematic example of the city's industrial past.”
complex
“The artist's use of the dove is emblematic of peace, though the painting's dark tones suggest a more complex and nuanced interpretation of the theme.”
Real-World Examples
“One case involving four men, known as the “Newburgh Four”, became emblematic of the risks.” “But Toni and Lala reappear through the novel as he works on his book, gently pushing back at Toño’s efforts to make them emblematic of anything.” Etymology
From French emblématique. See emblem.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/emblematic