https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7485603 | P a g e - 65 International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Studies Abb. Key Title: Int J Arts Huma Social Studies Website: https://www.ijahss.in/ e-ISSN: 2582-3647 Volume 4; Issue 6; Nov-Dec 2022; Page No. 65-78 Original Paper The Nexus Between Symbol And Concept In Colour Usage: A Study Of Selected Churches In Uyo Metropolis Ekponkeyen Akpan Usoroh 1* & Florence Nne Agwu (PhD) 1 1 Department of English and Literary Studies, Rivers State University, Nkpolu- Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt *Corresponding Author Ekponkeyen Akpan Usoroh ABSTRACT This study examines the areas of convergence between the symbolic and conceptual meanings of colours using selected churches in Uyo Metropolis. To do this, 20 churches were randomly selected across the different denominations. Using survey design, data were collected from responses to questionnaire administered to the respondents and analysed using descriptive method. This research affirms that there are some relationships between conceptual meaning of colours and their symbolic meanings, as well as some areas of convergence and divergence in symbolization of colour. This study concludes by noting that colour is an unspoken language that communicates meaning and that the poor knowledge of the symbolisation of the colours could lead to a breach of communication and misconception. This study therefore recommends that language users in the different speech Communities should consciously learn what these colours symbolise for effective communication. Keywords: Conceptual Meaning, Semiotics, Signs, Symbolism, Symbols INTRODUCTION Language is very significant in human communication; no aspect of human endeavor can succeed without the use of language. As noted by Udoh and Ekpo[1], language, “is the only means through which humans interact and express their thoughts, ideas, feelings and general values within a society” (7) The symbolic system is one creative use of English by man. Language, whether spoken or written, is symbolic, as the meaning of the word can only be determined by the ideas, images and emotions it conjures in the mind of the hearer. Symbol constitutes an important element of communication which enables the speaker mean more than what is said. A symbol denotes a person, place, action, word or thing which either by association, resemblance or convention connotes something other than itself. According to Eyo[2], “a symbol‟s connotation constitutes its symbolism”(48). For instance, a white flag is universally viewed as a symbol of peace, surrender; red stands for danger, black, is for darkness and mourning and so on. Eyo also noted that, “symbols refer to objects used to represent other objects, concept, conditions, places, behavior and phenomena, but which bears no direct resemblance to what they represent” (48). The above view revalidates Ogden and Richard‟s position that between the symbol and the referent, there is no relation other than the indirect one. Eyo‟s view also revalidates Wellek and Warren‟s[3] belief that a symbol is “an object which refers to another object but which demands attention also in its own right, as a representation” (189). By implication, symbols do not only perform aesthetic but also semantic functions in as much as they communicate meaning. One of the commonly used Symbols is colours. Colour usage and its associated meaning are arbitrary. For instance, the colour white is known and used across societies, but the meaning assigned to it differs from one speech community to the other. White symbolizes peace, purity, cleanliness and so on. The usage and symbolism of these colours matter over and above their conceptual meanings in any speech community. The church being an example of human community uses colours to communicate meanings. This usage is seen in the adorning of members and objects. This study explores the nexus or link between the symbolic and conceptual meanings of colours, using selected churches in Uyo metropolis is a case study.