Semiotics 符号学

Icon, Index, and Symbol — Three Categories of Signs
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3 Types of Signifiers — The Categories of Signs

Peirce said the form a sign takes, it’s signifier, can be classified as one of three types an icon, an index, or a symbol.

An Icon has a physical resemblance to the signified, the thing being represented. A photograph is a good example as it certainly resembles whatever it depicts.

An Index shows evidence of what’s being represented. A good example is using an image of smoke to indicate fire.

A Symbol has no resemblance between the signifier and the signified. The connection between them must be culturally learned. Numbers and alphabets are good examples. There’s nothing inherent