Representation

Definition

Representation refers to the act of speaking or acting on behalf of someone or the state of being represented. It can also denote an image, model, or description of something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌrɛprɪzɛnˈteɪʃən/
• Respelling: REP-rih-zen-TAY-shuhn (with "REP" as in "reptile," "rih" as a softer, unstressed sound, "zen" as in "zen," "TAY" as in "day," and "shuhn" as in "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌrɛprɪzɛnˈteɪʃn/
• Respelling: REP-rih-zen-TAY-shn (similar to American English, with "REP" as in "reptile," "rih" as a softer, unstressed sound, "zen" as in "zen," "TAY" as in "day," and "shn" indicating a slightly more clipped ending than in American English)

In both dialects, "representation" is pronounced with the primary stress on the "TAY" syllable. The pronunciation highlights the extended and rhythmic nature of the word, consistent across both American and British English with minor variations in the unstressed ending.

Etymology

The term "representation" is derived from the Late Latin word repraesentationem, which is from repraesentare meaning 'to show, exhibit, display'. It has been utilized in the English language since the 14th century.

Derivatives

• Represent
• Representative
• Representational
• Re-present
• Representatively

Synonyms

• Depiction
• Portrayal
• Illustration

Antonyms

• Misrepresentation
• Distortion
• Obscuration

Usage

The term "representation" is used extensively in legal, political, and social contexts to describe the act of acting or speaking on behalf of others. It's also employed in the arts and media to refer to the depiction or portrayal of subjects.

Related Terms

• Advocate
• Proxy
• Spokesperson
• Delegate
• Exhibit

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The action or fact of speaking, acting, or being appointed to act in the interest or on behalf of another entity or individual.
• Example: The attorney's representation of his client was commendable.

• The portrayal or description of someone or something in a particular way or as being of a certain nature.
• Example: The representation of the countryside in the artist’s paintings evoked a sense of nostalgia.

• The state of being depicted or described.
• Example: The representation of women in the media has evolved over time.

• An image, model, or other depiction used to display a particular trait or relevant feature of an object, phenomenon, or group.
• Example: The globe is a representation of the earth.