象征

• Pinyin: xiàng zhēng
• Hanzi breakdown: 象 = pictograph of an elephant, extended to mean image; 征 = 彳 (step) + 正 (correct), meaning sign or to indicate

Meaning

To symbolize; symbol. Something that represents or stands for an abstract concept or idea.

Used both as a verb (to symbolize) and a noun (symbol). Describes the representation of abstract concepts through concrete images. Common in discussions of art, literature, national symbols, and cultural meanings.

Examples

1. 在中国文化中，龙象征着权力和吉祥。 In Chinese culture, the dragon symbolizes power and good fortune.
2. 白鸽是和平的象征。 The white dove is a symbol of peace.
3. 这座纪念碑象征着人们对自由的追求。 This monument symbolizes people's pursuit of freedom.

Usage Guide

Context: culture, symbolism

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 红色在中国象征喜庆。(Red symbolizes celebration in China.)
• 这幅画有很深的象征意义。(This painting has deep symbolic meaning.)

Don't Say

• 这象征很好 (Grammatically incomplete — specify what it symbolizes or say 这个象征意义很深刻)

Origin & History

Compound of 象 (image, elephant) and 征 (sign, to indicate), meaning an image that indicates something.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal