What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
icon
Example
Click on the icon to open the application. [icon: noun]
Example
He is an icon of the fashion industry. [icon: noun]
Example
The church has many icons depicting saints and biblical scenes. [icons: plural noun]
symbol
Example
The heart symbolizes love and affection. [symbolizes: verb]
Example
The dollar sign ($) is a symbol for money. [symbol: noun]
Example
The dove is a symbol of peace. [symbol: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Symbol is more commonly used than icon in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and meanings. However, icon is more prevalent in modern technology and design.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between icon and symbol?
Both icon and symbol can be used in formal and informal contexts, but symbol may be more versatile due to its broader range of meanings and applications.
