represent vs symbolise

represent and symbolise both are verbs.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
represent	No	No	Yes	No
symbolise	No	No	Yes	No

As verbs, represent and symbolise are synonyms defined as:

represent and symbolise: express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol

Other synonyms of represent include stand for, symbolize, typify.

As verbs, symbolise is a hyponym of represent; that is, symbolise is a word with a more specific, narrower meaning than represent:

represent: describe or present, usually with respect to a particular quality
symbolise: represent or identify by using a symbol; use symbols

Other hyponyms of represent include symbolize, actualise, actualize.

represent (verb)	symbolise (verb)
to establish a mapping (of mathematical elements or sets)	express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol
serve as a means of expressing something	represent or identify by using a symbol; use symbols
express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol
point out or draw attention to in protest or remonstrance
bring forward and present to the mind
describe or present, usually with respect to a particular quality
create an image or likeness of
play a role or part
perform (a play), especially on a stage
be a delegate or spokesperson for; represent somebody's interest or be a proxy or substitute for, as of politicians and office holders representing their constituents, or of a tenant representing other tenants in a housing dispute
be representative or typical for
be the defense counsel for someone in a trial
form or compose
be typical of
take the place of or be parallel or equivalent to