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A brightly glowing, stylized lightbulb floating against a simple colored background, representing the concept of an idea or insight.

símbolo

SEE-mbo-lo

nounmA2
symbol?A representation of an idea or concept
Also:emblem?A symbolic object representing an organization or nation,sign?A written or visual mark representing something (e.g., in math or chemistry)

📝 In Action

La bandera es el **símbolo** de nuestro país.

A2

The flag is the symbol of our country.

El corazón rojo se usa como **símbolo** de amor en los mensajes.

A2

The red heart is used as a symbol of love in messages.

Necesitas aprender el **símbolo** químico del oro (Au).

B1

You need to learn the chemical symbol for gold (Au).

Para muchos, este coche es un **símbolo** de estatus y riqueza.

B2

For many, this car is a status symbol and a symbol of wealth.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • emblema (emblem)
  • signo (sign, mark)
  • icono (icon)

Common Collocations

  • símbolo de paz – symbol of peace
  • símbolo matemático – mathematical symbol
  • símbolo cultural – cultural symbol

💡 Grammar Points

Always Masculine

Even though it ends in '-o', remember that símbolo is a masculine noun, so you must always use the masculine article: 'el símbolo' or 'un símbolo'.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Confusing Gender

Mistake: "La símbolo."

Correction: El símbolo. The word is masculine, like many other Spanish words derived from Greek words ending in '-ma' or '-lo'.

⭐ Usage Tips

Abstract vs. Concrete

Use símbolo when referring to something that represents a big, abstract idea (like freedom or love). Use signo more for simple marks or physical gestures (like a road sign or a hand sign).

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: símbolo

Question 1 of 1

Which sentence correctly uses 'símbolo'?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

simbolizar(to symbolize) - verb
simbólico(symbolic) - adjective
simbología(symbology) - noun

Frequently Asked Questions

How is 'símbolo' different from 'signo'?

'Símbolo' is usually reserved for objects or images that represent complex, abstract ideas (like a national flag or the Olympic rings). 'Signo' is used for simpler marks, mathematical notation, gestures, or astrological signs.

Why is 'símbolo' masculine even though some similar-sounding words are feminine?

'Símbolo' is masculine ('el símbolo') because of its ancient Greek roots. In Spanish, many words ending in '-ma' or '-lo' that came directly from Greek (like 'clima' or 'problema') kept their masculine gender.