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Image: an arrow.
We are all quite familiar with signs. A sign represents an abstract concept. A black rectangle with a white arrow on it, with black text on it saying "ONE WAY" is a sign that represents the abstract concept of cars travelling in one direction, without the need for cars to be travelling. Right signs, rightly interpreted and heeded, prevent fatal accidents.
A symbol, like a sign, is not a thing itself. However, unlike a sign which is straightforwardly interpreted, symbols are quite often confusing and complicated. They are tied up and packed together, full of connotations. The arrow on the one way sign is a symbol - what it is a symbol of depends on its relationship to other symbols.
An arrow can indicate direction of movement - maybe intended direction (normative) or actual direction (positive). An arrow can indicate a location that should be travelled to. It can indicate, counterintuitively, the direction the wind is coming from. Drawn realistically it is a symbol of war and battle.