as a representation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a representation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that serves as a symbol or example of a larger concept or idea. Example: "The painting serves as a representation of the artist's inner turmoil and struggles."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

First is the question of representational status: Why does CAT count as a representation?

SEP

"Whatever you do is seen as a representation of her.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We hold onto the keys as a representation of home," says Mohammad.

The Guardian - Sport

Brown's idea was to present the office plant as a representation our "biophilic desires".

The New Yorker

We will read bodily gesture, attitude, form as a representation, as an evocation.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's not so much a melody as a representation of text in another dimension.

The Guardian - Music

Such a focus on academic capabilities as a representation of professionalism is misleading.

The Guardian - Opinion

But no one will take "American Hustle" seriously as a representation of that deliriously absurd episode.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Following alignment, statistical analysis was performed, using normalized volume as a representation of protein abundance.

Clinical Proteomics

Even so, following Henryson Troilus was seen as a representation of generosity.

Wikipedia

The animal form as a representation of the divine (theriomorphism, or zoomorphism) is characteristic of polytheism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a representation" to clearly indicate that something is symbolic or exemplifies a broader concept. This helps avoid ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "as a representation" excessively when a more direct verb like "represents" or "symbolizes" would be more concise and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a representation" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically introduces a description or explanation of something's symbolic role. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. It indicates the purpose or significance something holds.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a representation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that clarifies the symbolic function of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. When writing, use it to emphasize the symbolic role of an object or idea, but avoid overuse when a more direct verb would suffice. Consider related phrases like "serving as an illustration" or "functioning as a symbol" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serving as an illustration

Emphasizes the illustrative function, focusing on clarifying or explaining something.

functioning as a symbol

Highlights the symbolic role, suggesting something stands for a broader concept.

acting as a depiction

Stresses the act of portraying or visually representing something.

being a portrayal of

Focuses on the act of depicting someone or something in a specific way.

as an embodiment of

Suggests something is a tangible or concrete example of an abstract idea.

constituting an example of

Emphasizes the role of providing a specific instance or illustration.

as a reflection of

Implies something mirrors or shows the characteristics of something else.

representing

A more concise and direct verb form of the phrase.

in the capacity of a symbol

Highlights the symbolic function with a formal tone.

as a stand-in for

Suggests something is used in place of something else, especially when the original is absent.

FAQs

How can I use "as a representation" in a sentence?

You can use "as a representation" to indicate that something serves as a symbol or example of something else. For instance, "The dove is often used as a representation of peace."

What are some alternatives to using "as a representation"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "serving as an illustration", "functioning as a symbol", or "acting as a depiction".

When is it best to use "as a representation" instead of "represents"?

"As a representation" is useful when you want to emphasize the role or function of something as a symbol. "Represents" is a more direct verb and suitable when the symbolic relationship is clear. For example, "The statue represents liberty" vs. "The statue serves as a representation of liberty" (emphasizing its symbolic purpose).

Is there a difference between using "as a representation of" and "as a symbol of"?

While similar, "as a representation of" often implies a broader or more encompassing symbolic meaning. "As a symbol of" is more direct and commonly used for well-established symbols. Consider using "as a symbol of" when referring to generally accepted symbolic meanings.