a symbol of knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a symbol of knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that represents or signifies knowledge, wisdom, or learning. Example: "The owl is often regarded as a symbol of knowledge in various cultures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Here the Book is very much a human achievement, a symbol of knowledge and civilization amid ignorance and barbarism.

The New York Times

Like the dragon book in Elizabeth Kostova's "The Historian," Ashmole 782 remains enigmatic, a symbol of knowledge as forbidden as an apple in Eden.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Right now, Pakistan is perhaps where Doxiadis is busiest, its government having engaged him to design a new capital; a new university, officially described as a "symbol of Moslem knowledge;" seven new technical schools; and an addition to Karachi, the existing capital, that will house half a million refugees from India.

The New Yorker

Furthermore, 'basic CHWs' reported feeling disadvantaged by not receiving the iCCM training certificate, since they perceived it as a symbol of status, knowledge, and the opportunity to advance in life.

BMC Health Services Research

Some also brought young lawyers in to teach older Afghans in a society where age is a symbol of authority and knowledge.

The New York Times

As a result, in the story of Adam and Eve, the apple became a symbol for knowledge, immortality, temptation, the fall of man into sin, and sin itself.

Wikipedia

The motorbike, Granado remembers, was a symbol of their yearning for knowledge and freedom.

The Guardian - Film

She said that, "as a descendent of people who were denied the right to read, to now have the opportunity to serve and lead the institution that is our national symbol of knowledge is a historic moment".

The New Yorker

"It's a symbol of humanity's quest for knowledge".

The New York Times - Science

The images we are now seeing of the surfaces of other planets and their moons also have a beauty to them that I have heard modern artists remark on their intricate and majestic forms and patterns, which brings to mind another statement of Baha'u'llah: "Every created thing in the whole universe is but a door leading unto His knowledge, a symbol of His majesty, a token of His power".

Huffington Post

"You have the apple — the symbol of knowledge," Gassée said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a symbol of knowledge", ensure the symbol is clearly defined and the connection to knowledge is evident to your audience. Avoid vague or ambiguous symbols that may confuse readers.

Common error

Avoid using overly abstract symbols without proper context. If the symbol's meaning isn't readily apparent, provide an explanation to prevent misinterpretations and ensure your message is clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a symbol of knowledge" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It is typically used as a predicate nominative, identifying something as representative of knowledge, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples showcasing objects and concepts embodying this abstract quality. As Ludwig AI confirm the phrase is perfectly usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a symbol of knowledge" is a noun phrase used to describe something that represents learning, wisdom, or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability. While relatively rare, it appears most frequently in news articles, scientific papers, and encyclopedic entries. Related phrases include "a representation of knowledge" and "an emblem of knowledge". When using this phrase, ensure the connection between the symbol and knowledge is clear to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a representation of knowledge

Replaces 'symbol' with 'representation', focusing on the act of standing for knowledge.

an emblem of knowledge

Substitutes 'symbol' with 'emblem', suggesting a more formal and recognized representation.

a signifier of knowledge

Uses 'signifier' instead of 'symbol', highlighting the act of pointing to or indicating knowledge.

a token of knowledge

Replaces 'symbol' with 'token', implying a tangible or visible representation of knowledge.

an indicator of knowledge

Focuses on the role of the symbol as something that points out the presence of knowledge.

a metaphor for knowledge

Emphasizes the figurative nature of the representation, where the symbol is used to understand knowledge through analogy.

a hallmark of knowledge

Suggests that the symbol is a distinctive feature or characteristic associated with knowledge.

a badge of knowledge

Implies that the symbol is worn or displayed to show one's association with knowledge.

a representation of erudition

Uses 'erudition' instead of 'knowledge', indicating deep and extensive learning.

a manifestation of understanding

Replaces 'knowledge' with 'understanding' and 'symbol' with 'manifestation', emphasizing the outward display of comprehension.

FAQs

How can I use "a symbol of knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "a symbol of knowledge" to describe anything that represents learning, wisdom, or understanding. For example, "The library is often seen as "a symbol of knowledge"".

What are some alternatives to saying "a symbol of knowledge"?

Some alternatives include "a representation of knowledge", "an emblem of knowledge", or "a signifier of knowledge", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What makes something "a symbol of knowledge"?

Something becomes "a symbol of knowledge" when it is widely recognized and understood to represent learning, wisdom, or a deep understanding of a subject. This can be through cultural association, historical context, or deliberate design.

Is it better to use "symbol of knowledge" or "a symbol of knowledge"?

Using "a symbol of knowledge" is generally preferred in most contexts because it specifies that you are referring to one particular symbol. "Symbol of knowledge" without the article 'a' is grammatically correct but sounds slightly less natural in general usage.