Depiction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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depiction
[dษชหpษชkสษn ]
Definitions
artistic representation
A depiction is a drawing, painting, photograph, or other artwork that shows or describes something.
Synonyms
illustration, portrayal, representation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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depiction |
Used when referring to the act of describing or showing something in words or images.
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representation |
Refers to the way something is presented or depicted, especially in a formal or symbolic manner.
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portrayal |
Used when discussing how a person, character, or situation is represented in art, literature, or film, often focusing on how accurate or vivid it is.
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illustration |
Often used when talking about drawings or pictures in books, magazines, or educational materials; it can also refer to clarifying or explaining with examples.
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Examples of usage
- The artist's depiction of the sunset was breathtaking.
- The museum features depictions of historical events.
description or portrayal
A depiction can also refer to a written or verbal description of something.
Synonyms
description, portrayal, representation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
depiction |
Use when talking about a detailed visual or verbal presentation of someone or something.
|
description |
Commonly used in everyday context to provide details about something or someone.
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portrayal |
Often used in artistic contexts, especially in literature and media, to show how someone or something is presented.
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representation |
Typically used in formal or academic contexts to discuss how something is presented or symbolized.
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Examples of usage
- The novel provides a vivid depiction of life in the 19th century.
- His depiction of the crime scene was detailed and accurate.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art
- Different art movements such as Impressionism and Surrealism have distinct styles of depiction, influencing how emotions are conveyed.
- Historical depictions in art often reflect the culture and values of the time, showcasing societal beliefs.
- Illustrations in childrenโs books often use whimsical depictions to engage young readersโ imaginations.
Literature
- In literature, effective depiction brings characters and settings to life, helping readers visualize the story.
- Metaphors and similes are common in literary works, serving as powerful tools for effective depiction.
- Classic novels often focus on detailed depiction of environments to enhance the emotional impact of the narrative.
Psychology
- Depiction can influence perception; how we show something affects how it is understood emotionally.
- Cognitive psychology studies how visual representation impacts memory retention and recall.
- People tend to remember stories better when the depiction of events is vivid and engaging.
Pop Culture
- Television shows and movies use various styles of depiction to shape audience reactions towards characters.
- Graphic novels combine visual and textual depiction, creating a unique storytelling experience.
- In video games, the depiction of worlds and characters can heavily impact player immersion.
Origin of 'depiction'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Latin word 'depictio,' which means 'to paint or represent.'
- The prefix 'de-' suggests a sense of removing or presenting, while 'picere' relates to painting.
- 'Depiction' has evolved over centuries, influencing how we understand art and literature.
The word 'depiction' comes from the Middle French word 'depicter' and the Latin word 'depictus', both meaning 'to depict or portray'. The term has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to the act of portrayal or representation in various forms of art and communication.
See also: depictable, depicting.