What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
representational
Example
The painting is representational, capturing the likeness of the subject with great detail. [representational: adjective]
Example
In a representational democracy, citizens elect officials to represent their interests in government. [representational: adjective]
Example
Traffic signs are a representational form of communication, conveying information through symbols and colors. [representational: adjective]
symbolic
Example
The painting is symbolic, using various symbols to represent abstract concepts and emotions. [symbolic: adjective]
Example
The handshake is a symbolic gesture of trust and agreement. [symbolic: adjective]
Example
Emojis are a popular form of symbolic communication, conveying emotions and ideas through images. [symbolic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Representational is more commonly used in the context of art and politics, while symbolic is more commonly used in the context of language and communication.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between representational and symbolic?
Both representational and symbolic can be used in formal and informal contexts, but representational is more likely to be used in formal contexts due to its association with objectivity and factual representation.
