that symbolize

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that symbolize" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that represents or stands for an idea, concept, or quality. Example: "The colors of the flag are chosen to represent values that symbolize freedom and unity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The roof is shaped like the five interlocking rings that symbolize the Olympics, complete with the symbol's bright colors.

The New York Times

Round things that symbolize life's cyclical nature".

The New York Times

Or the concentric triangles that symbolize Alliance Capital Management?

The New York Times

The ambulance was draped with khatas, white scarves that symbolize auspiciousness.

The New York Times

Invasive procedures intrude on the body's sanctity, piercing the armor that symbolize its integrity.

The New York Times

"They are growing things," he said, "that symbolize the return to normalcy".

The New York Times

Romanticism, chaos, loud, quiet…all things conjured up in the song that symbolize various elements of Manhattan.

University of California, Berkeley

I'm a firm believer in eating foods that symbolize good luck and expanding fortune at the beginning of the year.

The New York Times - Health

The bleached surfaces of Sylvia Harnick's "Erased Memory" paintings obscure and reveal multiple layers that symbolize the mind's murky recesses.

The New York Times

Using definitions cut from an 1895 dictionary, Ellen Bell makes schematic children's clothes that symbolize the struggle to communicate.

The New York Times

"I had to see the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol that symbolize the core of this nation".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that symbolize", ensure the connection between the symbol and what it represents is clear to the reader. Provide context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid relying on obscure or overly abstract symbols without sufficient explanation. If the symbol is not widely recognized, it can confuse the reader and weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that symbolize" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun (often 'symbols', 'objects', or 'actions') by specifying their symbolic meaning or representation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that symbolize" is a grammatically sound and frequently used relative clause, serving to connect tangible entities with abstract concepts. Ludwig AI verifies its correctness and widespread applicability across diverse contexts, notably in news, encyclopedias, and scientific domains. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure that the symbolic association is evident to your audience to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "that represent" or "that signify" for nuanced expression. By understanding its function, purpose, and potential pitfalls, you can effectively leverage "that symbolize" to enrich your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that represent

Emphasizes the act of standing in place of something else.

that signify

Focuses on the act of indicating or denoting a meaning.

that stand for

Highlights the idea of representing or being an abbreviation for something.

that embody

Suggests the expression of an idea or quality in a tangible form.

that epitomize

Implies being a perfect example of something.

that illustrate

Focuses on clarifying or explaining through examples.

that denote

Emphasizes the act of serving as a mark or sign.

that reflect

Indicates mirroring or showing something.

that evoke

Highlights the act of bringing thoughts, feelings, or memories into the mind.

that suggest

Implies hinting at something without explicitly stating it.

FAQs

How can I use "that symbolize" in a sentence?

Use "that symbolize" to connect a concrete object or idea to an abstract concept it represents. For example, "The olive branch is a symbol "that symbolize" peace and reconciliation."

What are some alternatives to "that symbolize"?

You can use alternatives like "that represent", "that signify", or "that stand for" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "that symbolize" and "that represent"?

While similar, "that symbolize" often implies a deeper, more culturally ingrained association, whereas "that represent" is a more general term for standing in place of something. Use "that symbolize" when the connection is well-established and widely understood.

Can I use "that symbolize" in formal writing?

Yes, "that symbolize" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing abstract concepts, cultural symbols, or historical representations. Its clarity and precision make it suitable for academic and professional contexts.