symbolism

Meanings

1. 1noununcountable

   The use of objects, images, colors, or actions to represent ideas and feelings beyond their literal meaning.

   Grammar: Uncountable in this general sense; use symbolism of for the specific meaning carried.

   Patterns

   • rich symbolism
   • political symbolism
   • symbolism of color

   The writer uses water imagery and symbolism to suggest renewal.

   In the poem, the empty chair carries obvious symbolism.

2. 2noununcountable

   The set of symbolic meanings associated with something, such as a flag, ritual, or color.

   Grammar: Focuses on meaning rather than technique; often after the or a possessive.

   Patterns

   • the symbolism of something
   • religious symbolism
   • cultural symbolism

   The lecture explained the symbolism of the temple gates.

   Red has different symbolism in different cultures.

Common combinations

rich symbolism

The novel gains depth from its rich symbolism.

religious symbolism

The guide pointed out the religious symbolism in the paintings.

political symbolism

The handshake had political symbolism beyond the meeting itself.

symbolism of color

Students discussed the symbolism of color in the film.

Synonyms and how they differ

imagery

Imagery is language that appeals to the senses; symbolism specifically points beyond the literal.

metaphor

A metaphor is one direct comparison; symbolism can recur through objects or motifs.

allegory

Allegory is an extended story with hidden meaning, usually larger than one symbol.

Opposites

Word family

symbol noun

Something that represents an idea or quality.

symbolic adjective

Serving as a symbol or representing something else.

symbolize verb

To represent an idea or quality by a symbol.

Commonly confused: symbolism or symbol? symbolism or symmetry?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “symbolism”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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