Word
symbolize
Phoneticssym·bol·ize, stress on the first syllable
/ˈsɪmbəˌɫaɪz/
UK spelling · symbolise
Definition
v. to represent a bigger idea or feeling using a simple object or image. For example, a heart is used to show love.
v. to serve as a representation or emblem of an abstract concept or quality. Often used to describe how physical objects or characters represent deeper themes in literature and art.
Examples
“The white dove is used to symbolize peace.”
“In many cultures, the color red is chosen to symbolize luck and prosperity during wedding ceremonies.”
“The crumbling mansion in the novel is intended to symbolize the slow decay of the family's social standing and moral integrity over several generations.”
Examples
simple
“The white dove is used to symbolize peace.”
contextual
“In many cultures, the color red is chosen to symbolize luck and prosperity during wedding ceremonies.”
complex
“The crumbling mansion in the novel is intended to symbolize the slow decay of the family's social standing and moral integrity over several generations.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. It is frequently used in the passive voice when describing artistic or cultural meanings.
Pitfall
The ring symbolizes of their love
The ring symbolizes their love
Symbolize is a transitive verb and does not require a preposition like 'of' before its object.
Real-World Examples
“Using creative, art-based techniques, they shared what alcohol and zero-alcohol drinks symbolized for them and whether they thought zero-alcohol could replace alcohol for young people.” “For over two decades, these business districts have symbolised one of the Philippines' biggest economic success stories.” Etymology
From Middle French symboliser.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/symbolize