What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
depict
Example
The painting depicts a beautiful sunset over the ocean. [depicts: verb]
Example
The author's words vividly depict the harsh realities of life in the inner city. [depicting: present participle]
represent
Example
The eagle represents freedom and strength in American culture. [represents: verb]
Example
The union representative spoke on behalf of the workers during the negotiations. [representative: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Represent is more commonly used than depict in everyday language. Represent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while depict is less common and is typically used in the context of art or literature.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between depict and represent?
Both depict and represent can be used in formal or informal contexts, but represent is more commonly used in the context of politics or advocacy, which may require a more formal tone.
