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
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 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.