symbolise vs represent

symbolise and represent both are verbs.

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

As verbs, symbolise and represent are synonyms defined as:

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

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

As verbs, represent is a hypernym of symbolise; that is, represent is a word with a broader meaning than symbolise:

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

symbolise (verb)	represent (verb)
express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol	to establish a mapping (of mathematical elements or sets)
represent or identify by using a symbol; use symbols	serve as a means of expressing something
	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