What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
symbolising
Example
The dove is often used as a symbol of peace. [symbolising: verb]
Example
The red rose is a symbol of love and passion. [symbolising: present participle]
representing
Example
The lawyer is representing the defendant in court. [representing: present participle]
Example
The American flag represents freedom and democracy. [representing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Representing is more commonly used than symbolising in everyday language. Representing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while symbolising is less common and refers specifically to the use of symbols and imagery.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between symbolising and representing?
While symbolising is typically associated with a creative and artistic tone, representing is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
