SYMBOLS
in visual communication
by JuliannaKunstler.com
Symbol is a visual mark that is used to represent a message and is socially accepted by the majority.
Symbols convey messages without spoken or written words.
pictogram
ideogram
icon
rebus
phonogram
typogram
logo (trade mark)
pictogram (pictograph)
Pictograms are public symbols,they are used to convey information through their resemblance to a physical object or place.
There is no connection between the spoken word and the object pictured. A pictogram recalls the object or concept itself to mind, not its name.
That's what makes pictograms international.
Pictograms represent objects and places
ideogram
icon
Icons represent objects and their functions.
The name of a function (computer program, app) is substituted with a symbol that is recognizable and logical.
The most common use of icons in on digital devices.
Icons represent objects and/or their functions.
rebus
Rebus is a symbol that represent spoken sound, word or a part of a word.
Pictures that represent that sound or word have a completely unrelated meaning than the sound they represent in a rebus. For example: "B", "Bee", "be" sound the same and can be used in a rebus to substitute one another.
Most rebuses function only in one language and do not translate into another.
Some exceptions apply though - there are few international symbols that can be used in a rebus.
Rebus uses pictures to represent sounds, words, or parts of words.
phonogram
Phonogram is a symbol that represents a spoken sound.
Every letter in Latin or Cyrillic alphabet is a phonogram.
Phonogram represents a spoken sound.
typogram
Typogram is a deliberate use of typography to express an idea visually.
logo
Logo is a type of symbol used to represent a brand and to promote products and services.
Logo's job is to quickly identify and tell the story about a company, a service, a product, an idea, or an individual.
Logo is a unique symbol that identifies a company.
wordmark (logotype)
Wordmark consistsonlyof text, often stylized using a unique font.
Text-only logo styles are an excellent choice for smaller companies who are just starting their business and need to have their name out.
lettermark
Lettermarkis an abbreviation of a company name.
Initials will help you simplify your logo design, especially if the name is a long one..
brandmark (symbol or icon)
Brandmark is a pictorial symbol of a company.
combination mark
Combination marks ( also known as iconic logotypes) - is a combination of an icon (brandmark) and the company name.
Icon and text are positioned next to each other and can be used separately.
emblem
Emblemshold text inside of a symbol so that the two are practically inseparable. Text is a part of the symbol.
| representation | symbol | notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
pictogram | Represents objects and places | | Recalls the object or concept itself to mind, not its name; international |
| ideogram | Represents actions, ideas, or concepts | | Recalls the name of the object or its action |
| icon | Represents objects and/or their functions | | The name of a function is substituted with a symbol that is logical and recognizable |
| rebus | Represents sounds, words, or parts of words with pictures | | Brainteasers that cannot be translated to other languages |
| phonogram | Represents a spoken sound | | For example: every letter in Latin or Cyrillic alphabet |
| typogram | Deliberate use of typography to express an idea visually (to support the word meaning) | | Posters, logos, ads |
| logo: wordmark | Consists only of text Full brand name | | branding custom font |
| logo: lettermark | Consists only of text Abbreviation of a company name | | branding custom letterforms |
| logo: brandmark | Consists only of a picture | | branding pictorial symbol of a company |
| logo: combination mark | Consists of text and picture | | branding picture and text are positioned next to each other and can be used separately. |
| logo: emblem | Text is a part of the symbol | | branding text is a part of a symbol so that the two are practically inseparable |
