Skip to content

symboliser

to symbolise

verb sam-boh-lee-ZEH Rare

Usage Note

Symboliser means to stand for or represent something abstract. The related noun is un symbole and the adjective is symbolique. The phrase symboliser l'espoir ('to symbolise hope') is a very common collocation in political and literary discourse. Do not confuse with représenter, which is broader and more neutral.

Examples

"La colombe symbolise la paix dans de nombreuses cultures."

Natural Translation

The dove symbolises peace in many cultures.

Explore French by topic