ENGLISH
REFERENCE

signifies

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈsɪɡnəˌfaɪz// UK //sˈɪɡnɪfˌaɪz// sig·ni·fies

v. to be a sign of something or to have a specific meaning. You use this when one thing represents another idea or feeling.

v. to serve as a sign or symbol of something; to convey a particular meaning. Often used to describe how specific symbols or actions represent abstract concepts.


SIMPLE

A red light signifies that you must stop.

CONTEXTUAL

In many cultures, the color white signifies purity and new beginnings during important ceremonies.

COMPLEX

The sudden shift in the protagonist's tone signifies a deeper psychological break, suggesting that the character is no longer able to maintain their composed facade.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and requires a direct object. It is more formal than 'mean' or 'show'.

Pitfall

The bell signifies to the end of classThe bell signifies the end of classSignifies is a transitive verb and should not be followed by the preposition 'to' before its object.

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