what it signifies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what it signifies" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the meaning or implications of something, often in a more analytical or interpretive context. Example: "The painting is beautiful, but we must also consider what it signifies about the artist's perspective on society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We had a conversation that helped shape my understanding of this word, its legacy, and what it signifies when it comes out of my mouth.

Vice

Instead, Lexington will ask what it signifies.

The Economist

Lady asks a friend what it signifies.

The New Yorker

He asks the angel what it signifies.

The Guardian

Printed on the wall is what it signifies.

The New York Times

Whether the numerical amount is paid back is less crucial than what it signifies.

The New Yorker

Maybin will not disclose this number, nor will he divulge what it signifies.

The New York Times - Sports

They are intellectuals with an appreciation for sport and what it signifies in the modern age.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"For the entire week, I was asking the scientists and historians questions about the hoard and its meanings – why it was there, and what it signified – and all I heard back was: 'We don't know.

The Guardian

To Iwamura, one is more reverential than numerical because of what it signified in Japan.

The New York Times - Sports

The loudest cheers washed over Bernie Williams, who gushed over his first Old-Timers' Day experience, if not what it signified.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "what it signifies", consider the specific context and ensure it accurately reflects whether you're discussing meaning, implications, or symbolic value.

Common error

Avoid using "what it signifies" in contexts where simpler alternatives like "what it means" would be more appropriate. The phrase is most effective when exploring deeper implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what it signifies" functions as a noun clause, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It introduces a question or consideration about the meaning or importance of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

27%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what it signifies" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun clause that invites deeper analysis of meaning and implications. Ludwig confirms its correct usage, highlighting its prevalence across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. When writing, consider whether "what it signifies" accurately reflects the intended emphasis on symbolic value or deeper implications. While versatile, simpler alternatives like ""what it means"" may suffice in less complex contexts. Understanding its function and purpose enables more precise and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what it means

Focuses on the direct meaning or definition, rather than the broader implications.

what it represents

Emphasizes the symbolic value or what something stands for.

what it implies

Highlights the indirect suggestions or consequences.

what it indicates

Stresses the pointing out or showing of something.

what it suggests

Focuses on the subtle hints or indications.

what it entails

Highlights the necessary parts or consequences of something.

what it embodies

Focuses on the tangible representation of an abstract concept.

what it conveys

Emphasizes the act of communicating a message or idea.

the significance of it

Rephrases to emphasize the importance or meaning.

the import of it

Focuses on the importance or consequence of something.

FAQs

What does "what it signifies" mean?

The phrase "what it signifies" refers to the meaning, importance, or symbolic value that something holds. It goes beyond a simple definition to explore the broader implications or representations of a concept or thing.

How can I use "what it signifies" in a sentence?

You can use "what it signifies" to discuss the deeper meaning or implications of something. For example, "The flag is a symbol, but we must also consider "what it represents"/what it means/"what it signifies" about the nation's values."

What can I say instead of "what it signifies"?

You can use alternatives like "what it means", "what it represents", or "what it implies" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "what it signifies" and "what it means"?

"What it means" refers to the direct definition or explanation, while "what it signifies" delves into the deeper symbolic or implied meanings. "What it signifies" often carries a greater weight of importance or consequence.