what is a symbol used in writing?

Are you asking about symbols used in ancient writing?

If you are, an example is hieroglyphics (don't trust me that I spelled that right).

Hope I helped you!

thanks!!

There was also cuneiform writing.

http://images.google.com/images?q=cuneiform&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&resnum=4&ct=title

And today there are various alphabets and symbol systems. Ours (in modern day English) is referred to as the Roman alphabet although ours has a couple of letters the Romans didn't have.
http://www.google.com/search?q=roman+alphabet&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

http://www.google.com/search?q=greek+alphabet&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

http://www.google.com/search?q=russian+alphabet&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

and there are many others.

Our modern English alphabet has 26 pairs of symbols for letters (sounds) and ten symbols for numbers.

A symbol used in writing refers to any visual representation that represents an idea, concept, or object. Symbols are commonly found in various forms of writing, including literature, poetry, and even everyday communication. They can be concrete objects, like an apple representing knowledge or a heart symbolizing love, or more abstract concepts, like a dove symbolizing peace. These symbols rely on shared cultural or societal meanings to convey a deeper message or evoke emotions in the reader or listener.

To identify symbols used in writing, you can follow these steps:

1. Read or listen attentively: Pay close attention to the words and descriptions used in the text. Authors often use symbols to draw your attention, so be mindful of recurring images or ideas that stand out.

2. Analyze context: Consider the context of the text or situation. Symbols can vary in meaning depending on the larger themes or events within a story or piece of writing. Look for connections between the symbol and the broader narrative.

3. Identify patterns: Symbols are often repeated throughout a text, reinforcing their significance. Take note of any recurring images or phrases that may be symbolic.

4. Research and interpretation: If you come across a potential symbol that is unfamiliar to you, conduct research to uncover its cultural, historical, or literary associations. This can help deepen your understanding of its intended meaning.

Remember that symbols can be subjective and open to interpretation, so it's essential to consider the author's intention, cultural context, and your personal understanding when analyzing symbols in writing.