Translation guide
The English verb 'represent' has many distinct meanings. This guide organizes them by practical use, from acting on behalf of others to symbolizing ideas, with natural Japanese equivalents.
To speak or act officially for a person, organization, or country.
The most common and neutral way to say 'represent' in the sense of acting as a representative.
He attended the meeting representing the company.
Emphasizes acting as a substitute or proxy, often in legal or business contexts.
The lawyer negotiated on behalf of the client.
A phrase meaning 'as a representative of ~' or 'on behalf of ~'.
She gave a speech as the president's representative.
To be a sign or symbol of an idea, quality, or group.
Used when something represents an abstract concept or quality.
A dove represents peace.
A general verb meaning 'to express' or 'to indicate', often used for symbols or signs.
Means 'to mean' or 'to signify', suitable for explaining what something represents.
Red represents passion.
To show or describe someone or something in a particular way.
To be a good example of a category or type.
To officially express opinions, protests, or requests.
To be the equivalent of something in another system or context.
代表する is for representing people or groups (e.g., a company, a team). 象徴する is for abstract symbols (e.g., peace, freedom). Do not confuse them.
He represents the team.
White represents purity.
Avoid directly translating 'represent' as 代表する in all contexts. For example, 'This painting represents a landscape' should use 描く, not 代表する.
She represents our company at international conferences.
The color red often represents danger.
このマークは危険を表す。
This mark represents danger.
His work represents the darkness of society.
The residents represented their request for road improvements to the city.