Difference between revisions of "Symbol"
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| − | A '''symbol''' is something that is used for or regarded as representing something else. It may be a material object which represents an abstract or immaterial entity or idea such as a [[fish]] or [[cross] to represent [[Christianity]]. | + | A '''symbol''' is something that is used for or regarded as representing something else. It may be a material object which represents an abstract or immaterial entity or idea such as a [[fish]] or [[cross]] to represent [[Christianity]]. The use of symbols in a figurative sense is known as [[symbolism]]. |
| − | + | In written form, a symbol can be a single [[character]], [[letter]], [[number]], shape or a combination of several of these to designate something. In [[mathematics]] the [[algebra]]ic symbols ''x'' and ''y'' represent [[unknown]] or [[variable]] [[quantities]]. In [[chemistry]] the [[element]]s are assigned one ot two-letter symbols such as He for [[helium]]. In financial markets stocks, bonds, [[mutual fund]]s etc. are given symbols comprising a small series of letters. Generally the fewer letters that a financial instrument has then the more important and widely traded it is. | |
| − | A symbol can also be a [[word]], [[phrase]], [[image]] or object that embodies a complex of associated meanings and values: e.g "motherhood and apple pie", the " | + | A symbol can also be a [[word]], [[phrase]], [[image]] or object that embodies a complex of associated meanings and values: e.g. "motherhood and apple pie", the "Dunkirk spirit", or flag of the [[USA]]. |
| − | [[Category: | + | A symbol is different from a [[sign]]. |
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| + | == See also == | ||
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| + | *[[Abstract thinking]] | ||
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| + | [[Category:Language]] | ||
| + | [[Category:Philosophy]] | ||
| + | [[Category:Mathematics]] | ||
| + | [[Category:Chemistry]] | ||
| + | [[Category:Finance]] | ||
Latest revision as of 04:33, February 12, 2025
A symbol is something that is used for or regarded as representing something else. It may be a material object which represents an abstract or immaterial entity or idea such as a fish or cross to represent Christianity. The use of symbols in a figurative sense is known as symbolism.
In written form, a symbol can be a single character, letter, number, shape or a combination of several of these to designate something. In mathematics the algebraic symbols x and y represent unknown or variable quantities. In chemistry the elements are assigned one ot two-letter symbols such as He for helium. In financial markets stocks, bonds, mutual funds etc. are given symbols comprising a small series of letters. Generally the fewer letters that a financial instrument has then the more important and widely traded it is.
A symbol can also be a word, phrase, image or object that embodies a complex of associated meanings and values: e.g. "motherhood and apple pie", the "Dunkirk spirit", or flag of the USA.
A symbol is different from a sign.