to represent

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "to represent" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone or something is standing in place of or acting as a substitute for someone or something else. For example, "The student council chose a senior student to represent their class in the school elections."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Very proud to represent!

The New York Times

lawyers to represent them.

The New York Times

Got to represent Toronto!

The New York Times - Sports

It used to represent commitment.

The New York Times

"It's important to represent us".

The New York Times

I want to represent Texas".

The New York Times

She introduced me to Represent.

The New York Times

I try to represent that".

The New Yorker

He promised to represent all Egyptians fairly.

The Economist

"It's still going to represent liberty.

The New York Times

Shahid agreed to represent her husband.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to represent", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being symbolized or who is being acted on behalf of. Clarity is key to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "to represent" in overly abstract or vague contexts where the connection between the representative and what is being represented is unclear. Use more specific verbs for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to represent" is as an infinitive verb phrase, often used to express purpose or intention. Ludwig examples show it indicating the act of standing for something, symbolizing, or acting on behalf of someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

21%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to represent" is a versatile phrase used to indicate standing in place of, symbolizing, or acting on behalf of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, including news, media, and scientific writing. While generally neutral in register, clarity is crucial when using "to represent" to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "to stand for" or "to symbolize" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to stand for

Emphasizes advocacy or support for a cause or principle.

to symbolize

Highlights the act of being a symbol or emblem of something.

to act as

Focuses on the role or function of substituting for someone or something.

to embody

Suggests incorporating or expressing something in a tangible form.

to personify

Implies representing abstract qualities in human form.

to depict

Focuses on the act of portraying something, often visually or artistically.

to illustrate

Highlights clarifying or explaining something through examples or visuals.

to advocate for

Emphasizes active support and promotion of a cause or group.

to mirror

Suggests reflecting or closely resembling something else.

to be representative of

Highlights being typical or characteristic of a larger group or category.

FAQs

How can I use "to represent" in a sentence?

You can use "to represent" to indicate standing in place of someone, as in "The lawyer is here to represent her client", or to symbolize something, as in "The dove is often used to represent peace".

What is a good alternative to "to represent"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to stand for", "to symbolize", or "to act as".

What does it mean for someone "to represent" a group?

When someone is said "to represent" a group, it means they are authorized to act on behalf of that group, express their views, and make decisions that affect them.

How does "to represent" differ from "to present"?

"To represent" implies acting in place of or symbolizing something, while "to present" means to show or offer something. For example, a lawyer represents a client, but they present evidence in court.