figurine - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
figurine Word Meanings
- a small statue or model of a human or animal
- a decorative object often made of porcelain or glass.
- a representation of a character or creature.
figurine Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
figurine Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌfɪɡ.jəˈriːn/
US
/ˌfɪɡ.jəˈrin/
figurine Word Etymology
Root: 'figur-' from Latin meaning 'shape' + suffix '-ine' denoting 'related to.' Origin: Latin 'figurina' → Old French 'figurine' → English. Memory image: Picture a delicate porcelain statue of a dancer, capturing the essence of movement and grace, symbolizing the root meaning of 'shape.'
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 InputReal Context
Figurine is a small statue or model of a person or animal, often decorative. It is used for display, collected as a hobby, or given as gifts. Many figurines are made of porcelain, ceramic, glass, or resin, and they frequently depict characters, animals, or cultural subjects. In everyday speech, you might say 'a porcelain figurine' or refer to a 'figurine collection.' The word emphasizes size and delicacy rather than function, so it sits between a toy and a statue. Learners should note that figurine is decorative and not life-size. The etymology hints at 'shape' through figur- and '-ine' as a suffix meaning related to, and the memory image of a delicate dancer's porcelain figure can help recall the concept of form.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: small, decorative only
- Not a life-size statue or toy
- Common phrases: porcelain figurine, figurine collection
- Different materials possible: porcelain, glass, resin
- Plural: figurines
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing figurine with statue or figure; they are not life-size or monumental.
- Assuming all figurines are porcelain; many are ceramic, glass, or resin.
- Thinking figurines are just toys; many are collected or displayed as art.
- Mispronouncing figurine as 'fig-you-rine' or mixing with 'figure'.
- Using figurine only in stories; actually you can describe them in real life scenes.
Thinking Differences
Figurine highlights smallness and delicacy in English; learners should grip its decorative nuance and distinguish it from general 'figure' or 'statue'.
Learning Tips
- Create a mini glossary with common collocations
- Visualize memory image for recall
- Compare with 'figure' and 'statue' to avoid mix-ups
- Describe a figurine in a short caption
- Practice plural: figurines
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'figurine'?
A.An abstract painting
B.A kind of food
C.A type of small statue or model
D.A type of clothing
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'figurine' correctly?
A.She placed the figurine on the shelf.
B.I figurine the cake for my birthday.
C.He was excited to figurine his new phone.
D.They went figurine shopping at the mall.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'figurine'?
A.Statue
B.Car
C.Painting
D.Book
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'figurine'?
A.Abstract art
B.Life-size model
C.Playground
D.Chair
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where small decorative items are used?
A.The furniture in the room was all oversized.
B.He bought a life-size statue for his garden.
C.People often collect small decorations to display in their homes.
D.She prefers personalized clothing over standard designs.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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