symbolic
part of speech
adjective (symbolic, more symbolic); adverb symbolically
meaning for a pupil
1) Symbolic means standing for an idea or thing as a sign or symbol: a dove is symbolic of peace. tree →
2) Symbolic also describes an action done to show feelings or ideas rather than for practical use: a symbolic gesture. tree →
3) (maths) Symbolic means using letters and signs instead of words. tree →
sense in the lessons
Interpretation: Commentators warn that the vivid pictures in Sefer Yetzirah should be read as symbols, not taken in a plain literal way. In the primary lessons: In English lessons symbolic things in stories carry hidden meaning: a storm may be symbolic of anger. In church, symbols like the cross and bread and wine are symbolic for Christians. In maths, symbolic language uses signs like + and =. Phrases: symbolic of, a symbolic gesture.
examples
- The appearance of this root in the SY’s introductory paragraph serves as a reminder that although we embark upon a text rich in vivid, grounded symbolism—even anthropomorphism—we should not hasten to take such symbolic language overly literally. (Sefer Yetzirah, Sefaria community translation) tree →
- It is unclear if the author or editor of this section is employing Hebrew terms in a novel way, is unfamiliar with human physiology, or is using animal organs to some symbolic effect, or some combination thereof. (Sefer Yetzirah, Sefaria community translation) tree →
- The dove is symbolic of peace. tree →
- Red roses are symbolic of love. tree →
- For Christians, the cross is symbolic of Jesus's death and love. tree →
- Planting a tree was a symbolic act for the school. tree →
- In the story, the dark forest is symbolic of fear. tree →
- In maths we use symbolic notation, like x + 3 = 7. tree →
- The handshake was a symbolic end to the quarrel. tree →
- Lieutenant, love, and lack of money--that is a symbolic triangle, or much the same as the half of the shattered die of Fortune. tree →
note
«Symbolic of» + the idea. Noun: symbol; verb: symbolise (UK) / symbolize (US). Do not confuse «symbol» with «cymbal» (a musical instrument).
Trees and pragmatics
Every meaning and example of «symbolic» parsed by Mova, each sentence with its dependency tree and frames.