What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
signify
Example
The red light on the dashboard signifies that the car needs maintenance. [signify: verb]
Example
The dove is often used to signify peace. [signify: verb]
Example
His contribution to the project signifies his dedication to the team. [signifies: present tense]
represent
Example
The eagle represents freedom and strength in American culture. [represents: verb]
Example
The lawyer will represent the defendant in court. [represent: verb]
Example
The painting represents a beautiful landscape. [represents: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Represent is more commonly used than signify in everyday language. Represent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while signify is less common and often used in more intellectual or abstract contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between signify and represent?
Both signify and represent can be used in formal and informal contexts, but signify may have a more formal connotation due to its association with intellectual or abstract concepts.
