figure - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
figure Word Meanings
- a numerical representation
- a shape or form
- to portray or represent
figure Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
figure Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfɪɡə/
US
/ˈfɪɡjər/
figure Word Etymology
figure = fig + ure; Origin: Latin 'figurare' (to shape) → Old French 'figure' → English. Memory Image: Imagine sculpting a figure from clay, shaping it into form.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I stand at the desk, move the sliders and line up the numbers until a figure starts to feel real. I push and pull, tweak the scale, and watch the figure shift as I test what to show. It feels steady and focused, a small effort that keeps my attention on the details. In a report or a quick briefing, I let the figure carry the message, turning data into something you can follow.
Real Context
Figure has several related meanings in English. As a noun it can denote a number used in data, a shape or form such as a geometric figure, or a person, especially a notable one (a historical figure). As a verb it can mean to think, calculate, or suppose, and in the phrasal verb figure out it means to understand or solve. A memory image: imagine sculpting a figure from clay, shaping it into a recognizable form. This helps remember both the sense of form and the idea of a person or character represented by a figure. Learners often confuse numerical figures with counts or mix up figure with figurine or figurehead.
Usage Reminders
- - Figure is both a noun and a verb; use context to decide.
- - When talking about a number, you can say 'the figure' or 'the figures'.
- - For a shape, 'figure' refers to a form, not a person.
- - As a verb, 'figure out' means to understand or solve.
- - Be careful with 'figurine' or 'figurehead' which have separate meanings.
Common Misconceptions
- Figure does not always mean a person; in data or geometry it refers to numbers or shapes.
- Figure as a verb does not mean 'appear' in most contexts; use 'think' or 'calculate' for those ideas.
- Don't mix up 'figure' with 'figures' (plural) which often refers to numbers in data.
- 'Figure' and 'figurehead' are different; a figurehead is symbolic, not the person in a chart.
- People sometimes say 'the figure is negative' when they should say 'the figure indicates' or 'the data show'.
Thinking Differences
English uses figure for both people (notable figures) and numbers; context decides which sense, which can confuse learners who expect a single meaning.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses: number, shape, and person.
- Visualize a sculpture to remember 'form' and 'figure' as a person.
- Practice with charts to reinforce 'figure' as a number.
- Use 'figure out' for understanding, and 'calculate' for arithmetic.
- Keep straight the cousins figurine and figurehead.
- Check a dictionary when deciding noun vs verb forms.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'figure' used correctly?
A.The final figure of the budget was over $5000.
B.She couldn't figure what he meant.
C.The children were watching a figure on TV.
D.He was asked to figure out the math problem.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'figure'?
A.Wild
B.Salty
C.Form
D.Active
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'figure'?
A.Hide
B.Guess
C.Neglect
D.Forget
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you most likely hear the word 'figure'?
A.Discussing finances
B.Playing basketball
C.Doing a puzzle
D.Cooking a recipe
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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