With cross signs, an important factor for their meaning is the relative proportion of the lines. If the lines are unequally long, we immediately think of the Christian Cross, a death notice etc.

If a cross is displayed with equally long lines, the effect is a very different one. This symbol is usually associated with help, the Red Cross, depending on geographic location also with Switzerland or the symbol for pharmacy (e.g. in front of a green background).

Crosses are also used in road traffic. The St. Andrew's Cross, which is a rotated cross, is used to announce railroad crossings. Because of its rotation and the different angles (horizontally and vertically), we don't see it as a cross at first sight, despite the its name. Nevertheless it is still a cross.

As with other basic elements, a cross can be holohedral or consist only of a contour. Furthermore, it can be used as an open contour - we still interpret it as a cross. (For an example of a logo with an open cross, think of the Hexal logo.)