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Representational: meaning, definitions and examples

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representational

 

[ˌrɛprɪˌzɛnˈteɪʃənəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in art or literature

Relating to or characterized by the use of realistic images or details to represent objects, actions, or ideas.

Synonyms

figurative, realistic, true to life.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
representational

Used when describing art that depicts recognizable subjects but may not be exact or detailed. It gives an impression of the real object rather than an exact copy.

  • The painter's representational work captures the essence of the bustling city without focusing on intricate details
realistic

Best used when describing something that is depicted with a high degree of accuracy and detail, closely resembling real life. Often used in art and fiction.

  • The artist is known for his realistic portraits that capture every detail of his subjects' faces
  • The movie offers a realistic portrayal of life in the 19th century
figurative

Applied in situations involving art or language that uses symbols, metaphors, and non-literal representations. It conveys deeper meanings or abstract ideas.

  • Her figurative painting uses bright colors and swirling shapes to represent emotions rather than concrete objects
  • The poet's figurative language painted a vivid image in the readers' minds
true to life

Similar to realistic, but often implies an honest and faithful representation of the subject. It emphasizes authenticity and accuracy in capturing the nuances of reality.

  • The novel's characters are so true to life that readers feel like they are meeting real people
  • His true to life sculptures of animals are remarkably lifelike

Examples of usage

  • It was a representational painting of a beautiful landscape.
  • The novel was praised for its representational style of storytelling.
Context #2 | Adjective

in government or politics

Relating to or concerned with representation of the people in government.

Synonyms

democratic, representative, representing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
representational

Often used in the context of art, specifically to describe art that aims to depict objects or scenes from real life, as opposed to abstract art.

  • The gallery's latest exhibition features a collection of representational paintings.
representative

Used to describe someone who acts on behalf of another person or group, or something that serves as an example of a larger group or thing.

  • She was elected as the student representative for her class.
representing

Primarily used as the gerund or present participle form of 'represent,' indicating the act of speaking, acting, or being present on behalf of someone or something.

  • He is representing our company at the international conference.
democratic

Used when describing systems, processes, or principles that involve equal participation and voting rights for all members of a society or group.

  • The country recently held democratic elections to choose a new leader.

Examples of usage

  • The representational system in the country ensures fair representation of all citizens.
  • The political party focuses on representational issues in its campaigns.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'representare,' meaning 'to present again or to bring before.'
  • The prefix 're-' suggests repetition, while 'present' relates to displaying something.
  • The concept has evolved from depicting objects to representing more abstract ideas in art and language.

Art

  • In art, the term often refers to styles that aim to depict the real world, like realism and representational painting.
  • Famous representational artists include Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, who focused on creating lifelike portrayals.
  • The movement contrasts with abstract art, which does not attempt to visually represent the real world.

Psychology

  • In cognitive psychology, representational thinking illustrates how we can use symbols or images to understand concepts.
  • How we represent ideas in our minds impacts our learning and memory, shaping how we perceive the world.
  • Visual aids enhance memory and understanding because they represent concepts in a tangible way.

Society

  • In politics, representation refers to how elected officials act on behalf of their constituents, symbolizing their needs and voices.
  • Diversity in representation is crucial to ensure that all community voices are heard and respected.
  • Media representation impacts public perception, influencing how different groups are seen and understood.

Communication

  • In linguistics, representational forms (like words and symbols) convey meaning and represent ideas.
  • Metaphors are a form of representational language, where one thing is used to suggest another, enhancing our understanding.
  • Effective communication relies on accurate representation of ideas, feelings, and concepts, making it crucial in both speaking and writing.

Translations

Translations of the word "representational" in other languages:

🇵🇹 representacional

🇮🇳 प्रतिनिधिक

🇩🇪 repräsentativ

🇮🇩 representasional

🇺🇦 репрезентативний

🇵🇱 reprezentacyjny

🇯🇵 表現的

🇫🇷 représentatif

🇪🇸 representativo

🇹🇷 temsili

🇰🇷 표현의

🇸🇦 تمثيلي

🇨🇿 reprezentativní

🇸🇰 reprezentatívny

🇨🇳 代表性的

🇸🇮 predstavitveni

🇮🇸 táknræn

🇰🇿 өкілеттік

🇬🇪 წარმომადგენლობითი

🇦🇿 nümayəndəlik

🇲🇽 representativo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,577, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.