as a representation of

USAGE SUMMARY

"as a representation of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that serves as an illustration or example of a particular thing. For example, "The painting was used as a representation of the artist's emotions at the time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

The Guardian - Sport

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

He saw the image as a representation of white nostalgia for old Brockton.

The New York Times

In Christianity, the picture of Christ usually serves as a representation of the divine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

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

Encyclopedia Britannica

Dr. Graeber said the protesters would use such props as giant cardboard depictions of corn (as a representation of life to many of New York City's Hispanic immigrants) or top hats and champagne glasses (as a representation of affluent excess).

The New York Times

Fielding was unrepentant, pointing out that Bertie Wooster isn't held up as a representation of pre-war masculinity.

The Guardian - Books

After his win, I asked Azerrad if he thought it held up as a representation of mankind.

The New Yorker

But as a representation of the Ik, it stretches the bounds of anthropological ethnography to or beyond the breaking point.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a representation of" when you want to emphasize that something serves as a symbol, example, or depiction of something else. It adds clarity by explicitly stating the relationship.

Common error

Avoid using "as a representation of" when a simpler word like "representing" or "symbolizing" would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a representation of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or noun phrase. It indicates that something serves to depict, symbolize, or exemplify another thing. Ludwig AI confirms this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a representation of" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something serves as a depiction, symbol, or example of something else. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usefulness. It's frequently used in news, scientific writing, and encyclopedias, where clarity and explicitness are valued. While versatile, be mindful of overuse and consider simpler alternatives like "representing" when appropriate. The phrase functions as a prepositional modifier, clarifying the relationship between two entities and indicating that one embodies or stands for the other.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

representing

A more concise verb form of expressing representation.

serving as a symbol of

Focuses on the symbolic function rather than a general representation.

acting as an illustration of

Emphasizes the illustrative quality of something.

being a depiction of

Highlights the act of portraying something visually or descriptively.

exemplifying

Focuses on using something as a prime example or instance.

functioning as an embodiment of

Suggests a more concrete and tangible representation.

constituting a model of

Implies that something is a simplified version or pattern of something else.

mirroring

Suggests a close resemblance or reflection.

being a stand-in for

Highlights that something substitutes the place of something else.

symbolizing

Conveys symbolic meaning directly without the "as a" structure.

FAQs

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

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

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

Alternatives include "representing", "symbolizing", or "depicting". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "as a representation of" or simply "representing"?

While both are correct, "as a representation of" is more explicit and emphasizes the symbolic nature. "Representing" is more concise and suitable when the symbolic relationship is clear.

What is the difference between "as a representation of" and "as a symbol of"?

"As a symbol of" specifically indicates a symbolic function, while "as a representation of" is broader and can include depictions, examples, or models. For example, a painting might serve "as a representation of" a historical event, but a flag serves "as a symbol of" a nation.