Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Serving as a symbol or representation of something abstract: "emblematic" describes something that is a visible sign or emblem of a larger idea, quality, or institution.
   • Characteristic or typical of something; illustrative: "emblematic" can describe something that serves as a perfect example or illustration of a particular type, serving to represent its key qualities.

Usage

• As a symbol: Use "emblematic" to state that one thing is a symbol of another, often more abstract, concept. It is commonly followed by the preposition "of."
• As a typical example: Use "emblematic" to indicate that something is a representative or characteristic example of a broader category, trend, or style.

Examples

• As a symbol:
  • The dove is emblematic of peace.
  • For many, the old factory is emblematic of the city's industrial past.
• As a typical example:
  • His meticulous planning is emblematic of his careful approach to all projects.
  • The chaotic scene was emblematic of the festival's energetic atmosphere.

Advanced Usage

• "emblematic of": This is the standard construction to link the symbol/example with what it represents.
  • Her leadership style is emblematic of the new management philosophy.
• Used in formal, academic, or journalistic writing to convey symbolic significance or representativeness.

Variants and Related Words

• Emblematical (adj): An older, less common variant with the same meaning as "emblematic."
• Emblem (n): A physical object or design that serves as the symbol of a group or concept.
  • The eagle is the national emblem.

Synonyms

• Symbolic: Serving as a symbol.
• Representative: Typical of a class or group.
• Exemplary: Serving as a desirable model; representing the best of its kind.
• Typical: Having the distinctive qualities of a particular type.

Idioms and Phrases

• While "emblematic" itself is not typically part of idioms, it functions in the common phrase "emblematic of," which is used to declare symbolic representation.

Adjective

1. being or serving as an illustration of a type;
   • the free discussion that is emblematic of democracy
   • an action exemplary of his conduct
2. serving as a visible symbol for something abstract
   • a crown is emblematic of royalty
   • the spinning wheel was as symbolic of colonical Massachusetts as the codfish