figures - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
figures Word Meanings
- a numerical representation
- a shape or form
- to portray or represent
figures Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
figures Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfɪɡə/
US
/ˈfɪɡjər/
figures 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 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'figures'?
A.Mathematical calculations
B.Numerical representations
C.Ideals or beliefs
D.Physical shapes
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'figures' correctly?
A.She ran figures to catch the bus on time.
B.He figures the problem out in a matter of minutes.
C.The artist painted beautiful figures on the canvas.
D.The kid was playing with toy figures.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'figures'?
A.Graph
B.Shapes
C.Statistics
D.Calculations
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'figures'?
A.Reality
B.Nonsense
C.Ambiguity
D.Truth
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where this word is used?
A.The teacher presented the data through various visuals.
B.In the meeting, we discussed various financial trends and figures.
C.The athlete trained hard for the upcoming event.
D.A story can make more sense when backed by solid evidence.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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