象徴する

• Reading: しょうちょうする
• Romaji: shouchousuru
• Kanji breakdown: 象 (shou/zou) — elephant, image, form; 徴 (chou) — sign, indication, symptom
• Pronunciation: /ɕoː.tɕoː.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To symbolise; to represent something abstract through a concrete image or object.

A する verb meaning to serve as a symbol of something. Used when a concrete thing represents an abstract concept (e.g., a dove symbolises peace). Also used as a noun 象徴 meaning 'symbol.' Notably appears in 象徴天皇 (symbolic emperor), describing the constitutional role of the Japanese emperor.

Examples

1. 桜は日本の美しさを象徴する花だ。 The cherry blossom is a flower that symbolizes the beauty of Japan.
2. この像は平和を象徴している。 This statue symbolizes peace.
3. 彼の成功は努力の大切さを象徴している。 His success symbolizes the importance of hard work.

Usage Guide

Context: literature, culture, politics, art

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 象 (shou, elephant/image) + 徴 (chou, sign/indication) + する. The character 象 originally meant 'elephant' but extended to 'image/form,' while 徴 means 'sign,' together forming 'an image that serves as a sign.'

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal