Question

In the show "survivor"

Each contestant's torch is lit, their torch represents their life in this game

When you leave, your fire is snuffed


Angela says that the saying "your torch represents your life" is symbology

Is Angela using the correct word for the metaphor?

Explain why or why not

Answer 1

Angela is using the word "symbology" incorrectly in this context. The term she should use to describe the saying "your torch represents your life" is "symbolism."

Here's the distinction:

1. Symbolism: Symbolism refers to the use of symbols to represent ideas, concepts, or qualities. In the case of the show "Survivor," the torch is a symbol representing a contestant's life in the game. It's a metaphorical representation, and that's why "symbolism" is the appropriate term.

2. Symbology: "Symbology" is not a widely recognized term in English. While it may be occasionally used colloquially to refer to the study or interpretation of symbols, it's not the correct term to describe the figurative use of symbols in language or art. "Symbolism" is the standard and accepted term for this concept.

So, Angela should say, "The saying 'your torch represents your life' is symbolism," not "symbology."