01
symbolisch
symbolic
Standing as a symbol for something else; having a deeper, figurative meaning.
example
Die Übergabe des Schlüssels an den neuen Mieter war ein symbolischer Akt.
Handing over the key to the new tenant was a symbolic act.
symbolisch
symbolic
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word family
The adjective 'symbolisch' (symbolic) is derived directly from the noun 'das Symbol' (the symbol). The ending '-isch' is a typical way to form an adjective from a noun.
EXAMPLE
Die weiße Taube gilt als Symbol des Friedens.
The white dove is considered a symbol of peace.
Typical collocations
In its main meaning, 'symbolisch' (symbolic) is often combined with words that describe an action or a value. Typical collocations are 'symbolische Geste' (symbolic gesture), 'symbolische Bedeutung' (symbolic meaning), or 'symbolischer Akt' (symbolic act).
EXAMPLE
Die Umarmung der beiden Präsidenten war eine wichtige symbolische Geste.
The embrace between the two presidents was an important symbolic gesture.
Context clue: price
You can almost always recognize this meaning from the context of money or costs. The phrase 'für einen symbolischen Preis' (for a nominal price) means that something is almost free in order to formally complete a transaction.
EXAMPLE
Ich habe das alte Sofa für einen symbolischen Preis von einem Euro bekommen.
I got the old sofa for the nominal price of one euro.
Compare with
symbolisch vs tatsächlich
indeed / actual
'tatsächlich' and 'symbolisch' can form a contrast. 'tatsächlich' means that something really applies, happens, or has a real effect. 'symbolisch' means that something mainly stands as a sign for something else or happens only as a formality. A payment, for example, can actually have a high value or be only symbolic. 'tatsächlich' fits when the real effect is important; 'symbolisch' fits when the meaning as a sign is more important than the practical value.
symbolisch
Für das alte Fahrrad hat Tom nur einen symbolischen Preis bezahlt.
Tom paid only a nominal price for the old bicycle.
tatsächlich
Im Garten lernen wir tatsächlich besser, weil es dort ruhig ist.
We really do learn better in the garden because it is quiet there.
In real life
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