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
1
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 notesIn plain EnglishDone to represent an idea rather than to have a direct practical effect.
Common pairings
symbolically important
symbolically represent
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more symbolically
- Superlative
- most symbolically
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The two nations _____ signed the treaty at the site of the original battle.
Etymology
Formed from symbolical and -ly, or alternatively from symbolic and -ally.
Rhymes for symbolically
See all rhymes for symbolically →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.
