symbolic thinking

Symbolic thinking is the mental ability to use symbols—such as words, images, or objects—to represent concepts, ideas, or things that are not physically present. It allows us to think about abstract ideas, communicate complex thoughts, and imagine scenarios beyond our immediate experience. This capacity is fundamental for language, problem-solving, and planning, enabling humans to work with ideas symbolically rather than only relying on direct sensory information. In essence, symbolic thinking transforms concrete experiences into shared, meaningful representations that support understanding and creativity.