adv

symbolically

sihm-BO-lihk-lih

Symbolically (adv) means In a way that represents or stands for something else, rather than literally. Example: “The two nations symbolically signed the treaty at the site of the original battle.”

adv

In a way that represents or stands for something else, rather than literally.

"The two nations symbolically signed the treaty at the site of the original battle."

How to use symbolically

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDone to represent an idea rather than to have a direct practical effect.

Common pairings

symbolically important symbolically represent

Word forms

more symbolically comparative, most symbolically superlative

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Fill the gap

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The two nations _____ signed the treaty at the site of the original battle.

Etymology

From symbolical + -ly or symbolic + -ally.

Rhymes for symbolically

ally bally sally Wally dally rally tally pally really locally usually equally

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Frequently asked questions

What does “symbolically” mean?

The word “symbolically” means in a way that represents or stands for something else, rather than literally. In plain terms, done to represent an idea rather than to have a direct practical effect.

How do you pronounce “symbolically”?

“Symbolically” is pronounced sihm-BO-lihk-lih (/ˌsɪmˈbɑːlɪklɪ/ in IPA).

How do you use “symbolically” in a sentence?

Here is “symbolically” used in a sentence: “The two nations symbolically signed the treaty at the site of the original battle.”

What part of speech is “symbolically”?

“Symbolically” is an adverb.