What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
symbol
Example
The dove is a symbol of peace. [symbol: noun]
Example
The red cross is a symbol of medical aid. [symbol: noun]
representation
Example
The painting is a representation of the artist's emotions. [representation: noun]
Example
The lawyer is a representation of the defendant in court. [representation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Representation is more commonly used than symbol in everyday language. Representation is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while symbol is less common and often associated with cultural or emotional significance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between symbol and representation?
While symbol can be used in both formal and informal contexts, representation is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
