is representative of the

USAGE SUMMARY

This phrase is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that something is an example of something else or that it reflects the characteristics of that something else. For example: The blue bird's vibrant plumage is representative of the beauty of nature.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

No party now is representative of the nation.

The Guardian

(This Washington Post correction is representative of the general backtracking).

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet it is representative of the happiness of Saturday.

The New York Times

"We want a staff that is representative of the community we serve," Dr. Valenti said.

The New York Times

OK, but only if the government is representative of the will of the people.

The Guardian

Mr. Khatami is representative of the evolution that many in the reform movement have undergone.

The New York Times

It is representative of the Leo Castelli gallery artist's stylishly structured and witty imagery.

The Guardian - Arts

"But to say that is representative of the entire reef is a complete falsehood".

The Guardian

No college campus is representative of the entire nation, of course, but Ohio State is emblematic.

The New York Times

"We want music that is representative of us," he said, "that is representative of the Hispanic".

The New York Times

Singing the anthem only makes sense if you accept the monarch is representative of the people.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is representative of the", ensure the subject truly embodies the characteristics it's meant to represent to maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a single instance or sample accurately reflects an entire population or phenomenon. Always consider potential biases or limitations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is representative of the" functions as a linking verb phrase that connects a subject to a description, indicating that the subject serves as a typical example or embodiment of something else. As shown in the examples presented by Ludwig, this phrase emphasizes the relationship between a specific instance and a broader concept.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is representative of the" is a versatile tool used to indicate that something serves as a typical example of a larger category or concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatically correct and commonly used. It appears most frequently in scientific and news media contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure the example truly reflects the broader group to avoid overgeneralizations. Consider alternatives like "exemplifies the" or "is indicative of the" to add nuance. This phrase is a powerful tool for clarifying complex topics by providing concrete examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exemplifies the

Focuses on the act of serving as a typical example.

is indicative of the

Highlights the role of serving as a sign or indication.

typifies the

Emphasizes the quality of representing a type or category.

embodies the

Stresses the concept of giving a tangible or concrete form.

is characteristic of the

Highlights specific attributes or features.

mirrors the

Focuses on reflecting or closely resembling something.

reflects the

Focuses on showing or expressing something.

is symbolic of the

Highlights the use as a symbol to represent something else.

epitomizes the

Stresses the idea of being a perfect example.

illustrates the

Focuses on clarifying or explaining through example.

FAQs

How can I use "is representative of the" in a sentence?

Use "is representative of the" to show that a specific instance typifies a larger group or concept. For example, "This painting "is representative of the" artist's early style" indicates that the painting is a typical example of that style.

What phrases are similar to "is representative of the"?

Alternatives include "exemplifies the", "is indicative of the", or "typifies the". Each carries a slightly different nuance while conveying the idea of something serving as a typical example. For example, "This data "is indicative of the" overall trend".

Is it always accurate to say something "is representative of the"?

Not necessarily. It's crucial to ensure that the example genuinely reflects the broader group. Overgeneralizing can lead to inaccuracies. Verify that there is adequate evidence to support the claim before stating that something "is representative of the".

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

"Is an example of the" simply indicates that something belongs to a category. "Is representative of the" implies that the example embodies the typical characteristics of that category. The latter suggests a stronger connection and a more typical instance. In other words, an example is a member of the category, but a representative embodies the essence of it.