Words / B1

repr-i-ZENT/ˌreprɪˈzent/

Represent means speak or act for a group, or be a sign of something. A lawyer represents a client; this colour represents danger; the chart represents last year’s results. Stand for is informal for symbols; symbolise is more literary. Representative is the noun (a sales representative) and adjective. Representation is the noun for the act or the image.

Meaning

To speak or act for a person or group, or to be a sign of something.

Examples

• “This chart represents last year’s results.”
• “Who will represent the class at the meeting?”
• “The dots on the map represent hospitals.”

Good to know

represent a person / group. represent + meaning (be a sign). Person: a representative. Informal: stand for.

Near in meaning

stand for

New