noun · academic
symbolism
/ˈsɪmbəlɪzəm/SYM·bo·lism
the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities; an artistic practice of conveying deeper meanings through symbols.
Examples
“Many writers rely on symbolism to suggest themes without stating them outright.”
“The film's symbolism invites different interpretations from the audience.”
“Religious symbolism is common in medieval paintings.”
Band 8 sentence
“The painting's dense symbolism invites viewers to reflect on the country's colonial past.”
Collocations
- rich symbolism
- religious symbolism
- use symbolism
- symbolism in literature
Word family
Common mistakes
There are many symbolism in the painting.→There is a lot of symbolism in the painting.
The painting is symbolism.→The painting contains symbolism.
He used symbol to show sadness.→He used symbols to show sadness.
Say it for a higher band
5symbol→6symbolic→7+symbolism
Synonyms
allegory
metaphor
Easily confused
symbol
“The dove is a symbol of peace.”
Related words
Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.
In Art & Culture
Learn it with its set