Definition

1. Verb:
   • To be a typical example of something; to embody the essential characteristics of a particular group, category, or style. It means to represent the most common or standard qualities of something.
   • To serve as a symbol or representation of something; to symbolize. It means to express or signify an idea, quality, or group in a concrete form.

Examples of Usage

• Verb:
  • His dedication and hard work typify the spirit of our team. (He is a perfect example of the team's spirit.)
  • These small, family-run shops typify the charm of the old town. (They are characteristic examples of the town's charm.)
  • The painting typifies the artist's early use of bold colors. (The painting is a representative example of that style.)

Advanced Usage

• "to typify something as...": to characterize or represent something in a specific way.
  • The report typifies the problem as a systemic failure. (The report characterizes the problem as a failure of the system itself.)

Variants and Related Words

• Typical (adj): having the distinctive qualities of a particular type; representative.
  • This is a typical example of Roman architecture.
• Type (n): a category of people or things having common characteristics; a kind or sort.
  • She is not the type to give up easily.
• Archetype (n): a very typical example of a certain person or thing; the original model.
  • The story is an archetype of the hero's journey.

Synonyms

• Exemplify: to be a typical example of.
• Represent: to stand for or be a symbol of.
• Characterize: to describe the distinctive nature or features of.
• Epitomize: to be a perfect example of.

Related Phrases

• "to be typified by": to have something as a characteristic or defining feature.
  • His leadership is typified by clear communication and empathy. (Clear communication and empathy are characteristic of his leadership.)

Verb

1. express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol
   • What does the Statue of Liberty symbolize?
2. embody the essential characteristics of or be a typical example of
   • The fugue typifies Bach's style of composition