ENGLISH
REFERENCE

symbolically

adv.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //sɪmˈbɑɫɪkəɫi// UK //sɪmbˈɒlɪkli// sym·bol·i·cal·ly

adv. in a way that represents something else or shows a meaning. You use this when an action or object is used to stand for a larger idea.

adv. in a manner that represents or expresses a particular idea, quality, or feeling. Often used to describe actions that carry a deeper significance than their literal meaning.


SIMPLE

The dove is a symbolically important animal in many cultures.

CONTEXTUAL

The president visited the site symbolically to show the nation's commitment to peace.

COMPLEX

While the ceremony was brief, it was symbolically significant as it marked the first time the two nations had shared a border since the war.

Origin

From symbolical + -ly or symbolic + -ally.

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