written symbol
- noun
- /ˈrɪtən ˈsɪmbəl/
- In an alphabet, each written symbol represents a phoneme.
- written symbol represents
Examples
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In fact, invented spelling is an exploration of written symbols in language and, as such, can be characterized as phonics instruction.
Academic text (2008) -
In an alphabet, each written symbol represents a phoneme.
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As the written symbols of culture, books both transmit and reflect culture.
Academic text (2001) -
The student is now ready to learn the written symbol (figure) for the rhythmic word.
Academic text (1997) -
The analysis of the written symbols, along with the first-hand information provided by writers, opens unique access to social facts and processes.
Academic text (1998) -
In a syllabary, each written symbol represents one syllable.
Academic text (1990) -
In a logographic writing system, one written symbol represents one word or lexical item.
Academic text (1990) -
In a logographic writing system, one written symbol represents one word or lexical item.
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The analysis of the written symbols, along with the first-hand information provided by writers, opens unique access to social facts and processes.
Synonyms
A written sign such as a letter or number
A mark, like a letter, that stands for something
A carved or written sign that stands for something in writing
A symbol or word that stands for something else
A mark made when writing or printing, like a letter
A written sign such as a letter that shows a sound or meaning
Surface Forms
Morphology
The noun phrase simply combines 'written' (in a written format) with 'symbol' (a mark or character), so its meaning — a symbol that is written or used in writing — is directly derivable from the constituents. This adjective+noun compositional pattern is common and cross-linguistically transparent, so a B1 learner who knows both words would understand the phrase.
Etymology
Written symbol comes from the simple idea of a mark you make on paper: a written sign or symbol that stands for a 'sound', 'word', or 'meaning'. So, today it means a mark, letter, or character used in writing or printing.