is representative of a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is representative of a" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing something that exemplifies or symbolizes a particular category or group. Example: "The painting is representative of a significant movement in modern art." Alternative expressions include "is indicative of a," "is a reflection of a," and "serves as an example of a."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Every color is representative of a state of mind".

The New York Times - Magazine

BoJack Horseman's weighty, deconstructive approach to mental health is representative of a wider shift in comedy.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Each character except Maude is representative of a narrow, stereotyped point of view.

The New York Times - Books

Hawley's inclusion is representative of a good year for solo artists.

The Guardian - Music

THE confused public debate on this topic is representative of a more general problem.

The New York Times

It is not yet clear whether Dr. Anderson is representative of a widening trend.

The New York Times - Health

Lewis says it "really understands the UK market" and is representative of a new wave of French wine.

The Guardian - Business

I feel very sympathetic to her – she is representative of a very ordinary person who has to make this decision.

The Guardian

The idea that the final of Bake Off is representative of a wider change in gender attitudes is naive.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This will generate temperatures of around 2,200C, which is representative of a re-entry from lunar orbit.

The Guardian

This image is representative of a moment in that project where I became comfortable with the subject.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is representative of a" when you want to show that something is a typical or characteristic example of a larger group or concept. Ensure the subject truly embodies the qualities you are attributing to the group.

Common error

Avoid using "is representative of a" if the subject is an exception or outlier. Ensure it accurately reflects the characteristics of the group you're referencing to prevent misrepresentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is representative of a" functions as a linking verb connecting a subject to a predicate nominative or adjective, indicating that the subject exemplifies or symbolizes a particular category or group. As Ludwig confirms, it's a valid and usable expression in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is representative of a" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for illustrating a broader concept through a specific example. It bridges a particular instance with its larger category, suggesting that the subject possesses qualities that are typical of the group. As indicated by Ludwig, the expression is valid and frequently used. While it appears in various source types its usage leans more towards neutral and formal registers. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject accurately reflects the characteristics of the group being referenced, and avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exemplifies a

This alternative focuses on highlighting a characteristic example.

is typical of a

This alternative stresses the common or usual nature of something within a category.

symbolizes a

This suggests that something stands for or represents a concept or idea.

embodies a

This alternative emphasizes the physical or tangible expression of something abstract.

is an instance of a

This alternative highlights a particular occurrence or example.

reflects a

This implies that something mirrors or shows something else.

is indicative of a

This suggests that something serves as a sign or indication of something else.

characterizes a

This emphasizes the distinguishing features or qualities of something.

serves as a model for a

This suggests that something is an example to be followed.

is a case in point of a

This alternative highlights something as a clear and relevant example.

FAQs

How do I use "is representative of a" in a sentence?

Use "is representative of a" to indicate that something exemplifies a broader category. For example, "This painting "is representative of a" significant movement in modern art" shows the painting's connection to a larger artistic trend.

What are some alternatives to "is representative of a"?

You can use alternatives like "exemplifies a", "is typical of a", or "symbolizes a" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "is representative of a" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to demonstrate that a specific instance is a typical or characteristic example of a larger trend, group, or concept. It helps to illustrate a broader point through a specific example.

What's the difference between "is representative of a" and "is an example of a"?

"Is an example of a" simply means that something belongs to a certain category. "Is representative of a" implies that the example embodies the typical characteristics of that category, making it a good illustration of the whole.