Cymbal vs. Symbol-Difference between and Examples

The word “cymbal” refers to a musical instrument used in percussion, while the word “symbol” denotes an object or image representing something else with a deeper or abstract meaning.

Although these words may sound similar, they have distinct meanings and usage.

In this article, we will explore the differences between cymbal and symbol, providing definitions, examples, and highlighting their contrasting characteristics.

Meanings and Examples

Cymbal Meaning

Noun: A cymbal is a musical instrument that belongs to the percussion family. It consists of a round, metal plate that produces a distinctive sound when struck with a drumstick or another cymbal. Cymbals are commonly used in various musical genres, including rock, jazz, and orchestral music.

Cymbal Examples

1. The drummer skillfully played the crash cymbal during the climax of the song.
2. The marching band’s percussion section included a set of hi-hat cymbals.
3. The cymbalist’s precise technique produced a rich and resonant sound.

Symbol Meaning

Noun: A symbol is an object, image, word, or gesture that represents or stands for something else, often with a deeper or abstract meaning. Symbols are used to convey ideas, concepts, or emotions, and they can be found in literature, art, religion, and other forms of communication.

Symbol Examples

1. The dove is a symbol of peace and tranquility.
2. The red rose is often regarded as a symbol of love and passion.
3. In literature, the green light in “The Great Gatsby” serves as a symbol of hope and unattainable dreams.

Differences Between Cymbal and Symbol

Here are the main differences between Cymbal and Symbol:

Criteria	Cymbal	Symbol
Meaning	Percussion instrument producing musical sound	Object or image representing something else
Usage	Describing a musical instrument	Describing a representation or concept
Function	Producing sound in musical performances	Conveying deeper meanings or representing ideas
Examples	Crash cymbal, hi-hat cymbals	Dove as a symbol of peace, red rose as a symbol of love
Pronunciation	ˈsɪm-bəl	ˈsɪm-bəl

Usage in a Paragraph

Cymbal and symbol may appear similar in spelling and pronunciation, but their meanings and functions are vastly different. A cymbal is a musical instrument used in percussion, producing distinct sounds during musical performances. On the other hand, a symbol represents or stands for something else, often conveying deeper meanings or representing concepts. Whether a drummer striking a cymbal during a rock concert or discussing the symbolism of a dove representing peace, understanding the distinction between cymbal and symbol ensures clear and accurate communication.