as an allegory of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as an allegory of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something represents or symbolizes a deeper meaning or concept through a story or narrative. Example: "The novel can be interpreted as an allegory of the struggle for freedom and justice in society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The novel can be read as an allegory of imperialism.

The Guardian - Books

It was seen as an allegory of the cold war.

The Guardian

It can be read as an allegory of interiority.

The Guardian - Books

More recently, the civilising influence has been read as an allegory of colonialist rule.

Independent

Williams made it clear that he viewed "Milk Train" as an allegory of death.

The New Yorker

Of course it works too as an allegory of where we are heading as a nation.

The Guardian - Opinion

As an allegory of wartime France, you couldn't get more damning.

Independent

Scholars have written reams about this ermine's significance as an allegory of purity.

The Guardian - Arts

Roth's "Human Stain," published last year, can be read as an allegory of the Clinton presidency.

The New York Times - Books

Georgette holding doves after world war two, as an allegory of peace or as a suspended moment of happiness?

The Guardian - Arts

Some critics have read the film as an allegory of the Maoist insurgency sweeping through the Indian hinterlands.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as an allegory of" when you want to suggest a deeper, symbolic meaning behind a narrative, image, or situation. Ensure the subject truly functions as a representation, not just a comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "as an allegory of" when the connection is merely superficial or metaphorical. An allegory requires a sustained and layered symbolic structure, not just a passing resemblance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as an allegory of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating that something is being interpreted or understood in a symbolic or representative way. This is supported by Ludwig, which provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Encyclopedias

23%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as an allegory of" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to suggest a symbolic interpretation of something, implying a deeper meaning beyond the literal. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject indeed carries a sustained symbolic structure, rather than just a superficial resemblance. Alternatives like "as a symbol of" or "as a metaphor for" can be used depending on the desired nuance. By understanding its usage and context, you can effectively communicate the symbolic depth of your subject matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a metaphor for

Replaces 'allegory' with 'metaphor', focusing on a more direct comparison or symbolic representation.

as a symbol of

Substitutes 'allegory' with 'symbol', highlighting the representative nature of something.

representing

Uses a verb to indicate representation, simplifying the phrase.

symbolizing

Another verb-based alternative, emphasizing the act of symbolizing.

understood as

Shifts the focus to interpretation, suggesting how something is understood.

interpreted as

Similar to 'understood as', but with a stronger emphasis on active interpretation.

seen as

A more general alternative, indicating how something is viewed or perceived.

considered to be

Formal alternative, expressing a more considered judgment.

regarded as

Similar to 'considered to be', but slightly less formal.

exemplifying

Focuses on the idea of something serving as an example or illustration.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "as an allegory of" in a sentence?

To effectively use "as an allegory of", ensure that the subject genuinely represents a deeper meaning. For instance, 'The journey can be read "as an allegory of" personal transformation' implies a symbolic journey with layers of meaning.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "as an allegory of"?

You can use phrases like "as a symbol of", "as a metaphor for", or "representing" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "as an allegory of"?

It is appropriate in literary analysis, art criticism, and philosophical discussions where you're interpreting something as representing a deeper moral, political, or spiritual meaning. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across diverse contexts.

What's the difference between "as an allegory of" and "as a symbol of"?

While both suggest representation, "as an allegory of" implies a more complex, layered, and narrative representation, whereas "as a symbol of" often refers to a more direct and singular representation.