it symbolises

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it symbolises" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the meaning or representation of something, often in a metaphorical or symbolic context. Example: "In literature, the color red often symbolises passion and love."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

THE New York Times once epitomised all that was great about American newspapers; now it symbolises its industry's deep malaise.

The Economist

The burkini does not symbolise Islam, it symbolises leisure and happiness and fitness and health.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's what it symbolises and its location".

Vice

It symbolises death".

The Guardian

Once again, it symbolises unity.

The Guardian

It symbolises a long-awaited economic renewal.

The Economist

But it symbolises a wider change.

The Economist

"It symbolises such deep sorrow," she says.

The Guardian - Books

"It symbolises business and dynamism and aspiration".

The Guardian - Business

It symbolises a society that has lost all moral compass".

The Guardian

I have read somewhere that it symbolises sex and death.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it symbolises", ensure the subject clearly connects to the concept or idea it represents. Ambiguity can weaken the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "it symbolises" repeatedly within a short passage. Vary your language with synonyms like "it represents", "it embodies", or "it signifies" to enhance readability and prevent redundancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it symbolises" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject with a noun or noun phrase that describes what the subject represents. This construction indicates that the subject is a symbol of something else. According to Ludwig AI, this is a valid English phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it symbolises" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating that something represents or stands for something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is valid English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to convey symbolic meanings and interpret the deeper significance of various subjects. While synonyms like "it represents" or "it embodies" can provide variety, clarity in connecting the subject and its symbolic representation remains key for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it represents

Directly substitutes 'symbolises' with 'represents', keeping the meaning virtually identical.

it signifies

Replaces 'symbolises' with 'signifies', indicating a slightly more formal tone but maintaining the core meaning.

it embodies

Substitutes 'symbolises' with 'embodies', suggesting a more concrete representation.

it exemplifies

Replaces 'symbolises' with 'exemplifies', emphasizing that something serves as a typical example.

it stands for

Uses a phrasal verb with a slightly more informal tone, still conveying the meaning of representation.

it is emblematic of

A more formal and complex way of saying 'it symbolises', highlighting the symbolic nature.

it connotes

Replaces 'symbolises' with 'connotes', focusing on the suggestive or implied meaning.

it is a sign of

Offers a more straightforward way of stating that something indicates something else.

it mirrors

Implies a reflective or analogous relationship, rather than a direct symbolic one.

it alludes to

Suggests an indirect reference or hint, rather than a direct symbol.

FAQs

How can I use "it symbolises" in a sentence?

Use "it symbolises" to indicate that something represents or stands for something else, often an abstract concept. For example, "The dove it symbolises peace".

What can I say instead of "it symbolises"?

You can use alternatives like "it represents", "it signifies", or "it embodies" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "it symbolises" or "it symbolizes"?

"It symbolises" is the British English spelling, while "it symbolizes" is the American English spelling. Choose the spelling that aligns with your target audience.

What's the difference between "it symbolises" and "it represents"?

While similar, "it symbolises" implies a deeper, often culturally or historically ingrained connection, whereas "it represents" can be a more direct or straightforward representation.