Symbolization: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in contexts related to abstract ideas or concepts where one thing stands for another. It is common in discussions about art, psychology, and literature.

• The symbolization of freedom in the statue is widely recognized

Representation is a broader term that can be used in various contexts to describe how something is depicted or portrayed, whether visually, textually, or conceptually.

• The painting is a representation of the artist’s feelings

Symbolism is often used in literature and art to discuss the use of symbols to give deeper meanings to the ordinary, often conveying complex ideas and emotions.

• The symbolism of the raven in Poe's poem suggests darkness and despair

Notation is typically used in technical or academic settings, especially in mathematics, music, and computer programming, to represent information in a systematic way.

• In musical notation, each symbol represents a specific pitch and duration

Used to express the action or process of representing something with symbols. Often found in contexts related to semiotics, psychology, or the use of symbols in communication.

• The symbolization of emotions in art can convey feelings more effectively than words.
• In Jungian analysis, dreams often involve a process of symbolization.

Broadly used to indicate the depiction or portrayal of someone or something in a specific way. It can relate to visual art, political contexts, or the act of standing in for someone else.

• The painting is a representation of the artist's hometown.
• She was elected to provide representation for her community in the city council.

Denotes the act of giving something a fixed, formal structure. Frequently used in discussions about institutional processes, official documentation, or the establishment of formal rules.

• The formalization of the agreement required detailed documentation and approval by both parties.
• There were many steps involved in the formalization of the new corporate policies.

Refers to the process of arranging laws or rules into a systematic code, or more generally organizing information systematically. Common in legal, linguistic, and organizational contexts.

• The codification of laws ensures that all regulations are systematically recorded.
• The project involved the codification of best practices for industrial safety.

Duplicated entry.

General term used to describe the act of presenting, depicting, or symbolizing something in some form.

• The map is a representation of the geographical area.
• This painting is a representation of Renaissance art.

Often used to describe the process of converting spoken words into written form or transferring information from one format to another.

• The transcription of the interview took several hours.
• She specializes in the transcription of ancient manuscripts.

Used mainly in mathematical, scientific, or music contexts to refer to a system of symbols and signs that express specific information.

• Musicians learn musical notation to read and write music.
• Mathematical notation helps in communicating complex formulas easily.