Confusing words explained
“cymbal” vs “symbol” — What’s the Difference?
Symbol is a sign; cymbal is a musical instrument.
Key takeaway
Quick Difference: cymbal vs symbol
Symbol is a sign; cymbal is a musical instrument.
cymbal vs symbol Side-by-Side Comparison
Meaning of cymbal
A round metal percussion instrument that produces a loud ringing sound when struck or clashed together.
One of a pair of round metal plates you hit together to make a loud noise in music.
Use cymbal when you mean one of a pair of round metal plates you hit together to make a loud noise in music.
- The cymbal player crashed the cymbals together at the climax of the symphony.
- In the marching band, the cymbal section provides the rhythm and energy.
Meaning of symbol
A sign or object representing something else.
Something that stands for or represents an idea or thing.
Use symbol when referring to something that represents or stands for something abstract or important.
- The dove is a symbol of peace.
- In math, the '+' symbol means addition.
How to Remember the Difference
Symbol = stands for something else. Cymbal = musical instrument.
Common Mistakes with cymbal and symbol
Mistake with cymbal
Wrong: I played the cymbol in the orchestra.
Correct: I played the cymbal in the orchestra.
Cymbal is spelled with "a" not "o".
Mistake with cymbal
Wrong: The cymbal in the band is a symbol of music.
Correct: The cymbal in the band is an instrument of music.
Cymbal is the instrument, not a symbol or sign.
Mistake with symbol
Wrong: This symbol means about equality.
Correct: This symbol represents equality.
Symbols 'represent' or 'stand for', not 'mean about'.
Mistake with symbol
Wrong: She uses a red circle as symbol.
Correct: She uses a red circle as a symbol.
Article 'a' is required before symbol in this context.
Practice Quiz: cymbal or symbol?
Choose the word that best completes each real example sentence.
Question 1
The _____ player crashed the cymbals together at the climax of the symphony.
Question 2
In the marching band, the _____ section provides the rhythm and energy.
Question 3
She practiced her _____ technique for hours to perfect the timing.
Pick at least one answer, then press Check answers to see how you did.
You scored 0 out of 3
Frequently Asked Questions About cymbal vs symbol
What’s the difference between “cymbal” and “symbol”?
Symbol is a sign; cymbal is a musical instrument.
When should I use “cymbal”?
One of a pair of round metal plates you hit together to make a loud noise in music.
When should I use “symbol”?
Use symbol when referring to something that represents or stands for something abstract or important.
How can I remember cymbal vs symbol?
Symbol = stands for something else. Cymbal = musical instrument.
Is it “cymbal” or “symbol” in example sentences?
Use the quiz above to test the pair with real example sentences from the available word data.