What is the Difference Between Iconic and Symbolic Signs?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between iconic and symbolic signs lies in the relationship between the signifier and the signified:
- Iconic Signs: In iconic signs, the meaning is based on the similarity of appearance between the signifier and the signified. The signifier and the signified bear a strong physical resemblance. Examples of iconic signs include statues, photos, drawings, and pictures.
- Symbolic Signs: In symbolic signs, the meaning is not based on the similarity of appearance between the signifier and the signified. The relationship between the signifier and the signified is arbitrary and culturally specific. Examples of symbolic signs include letters of the alphabet, numbers, and religious symbols.
In summary, iconic signs are based on visual resemblance, while symbolic signs rely on cultural and linguistic conventions to convey meaning.
Comparative Table: Iconic vs Symbolic Signs
The main difference between iconic and symbolic signs lies in the relationship between the signifier and the signified. Here is a table summarizing the differences:
| Feature | Iconic Signs | Symbolic Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Signs where meaning is based on the similarity of appearance | Signs where meaning is not based on the similarity of appearance |
| Relationship | The signifier and the signified bear a strong physical resemblance | The relationship between the signifier and the signified is arbitrary |
| Examples | Statues, photos, drawings | Letters of the alphabet, numbers, religious symbols, famous trademarks |
| Other Names | Also known as icons | Also known as symbols |
In iconic signs, the meaning is based on the similarity of appearance between the signifier and the signified, such as statues, photos, or drawings. In contrast, symbolic signs have an arbitrary relationship between the signifier and the signified, and their meaning is not based on appearance. Examples of symbolic signs include letters of the alphabet, numbers, religious symbols, and famous trademarks.
- Icon vs Symbol
- Sign vs Symbol
- Signifier vs Signified
- Symbol vs Metaphor
- Symbol vs Motif
- Metaphor vs Metonymy
- Brand Identity vs Brand Image
- Historic vs Historical
- Legend vs Myth
- Image vs Brand
- Important vs Significant
- Brand vs Trademark
- History vs Legend
- Corporate Identity vs Branding
- Monument vs Memorial
- Metonymy vs Synecdoche
- Conceptual vs Logical Model
- Paradigm vs Syntagm
- Literal vs Figurative Language