symbolism

The use of objects, pictures, or actions to express ideas beyond their direct meaning.

• The poem uses colour symbolism.
• We discussed the symbolism of the broken clock.
• What does the bird’s symbolism tell us about the story?

How to use it: symbolism of something (She explained the symbolism of the red door.)

Common phrases: religious symbolism, symbolism in art

A movement in art and writing that used images and indirect meanings to express deep ideas.

• She studies symbolism in French poetry.
• The exhibition explores symbolism in nineteenth-century painting.
• His early poems show the influence of symbolism.

Common phrases: French symbolism, symbolism in poetry