a figure of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a figure of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe an image or representation of something abstract, such as an idea or emotion. For example: "In her painting, the artist captured a figure of loneliness in the posture of the figure standing in the corner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

A figure of £2bn has been suggested.

The Guardian

(A figure of £20m has been quoted).

Independent

It is not a figure of speech".

The New Yorker

Analysts had predicted a figure of 3.1%.

The Guardian - Business

(Clowes's critic is a figure of fun).

The New Yorker

It was just a figure of speech.

The Guardian - Sport

Maybe that's just a figure of speech".

The New York Times

A figure of comedy," says Julia.

The Guardian - Books

A figure of €120bn was mentioned.

The Guardian - Business

We need a figure of 1.5C".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The photomechanical responses are compared by calculating a figure-of-merit – Photocompliance (Cp).

Polymer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a figure of" to indicate a metaphorical or symbolic representation, ensure the context clearly establishes the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "a figure of" when a more precise term is needed. For instance, instead of saying "He is a figure of success", consider "He is a model of success" to convey a more accurate sentiment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a figure of" primarily functions as a determiner followed by a noun, often introducing a specific numerical value or a representative example. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

14%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a figure of" is a versatile phrase commonly used to introduce a numerical value or represent a person or idea, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's grammatically correct and frequently found in news, business, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a literal amount or a figurative representation. For alternatives, consider phrases like "an amount of" or "a representation of" to convey similar meanings. Remember to avoid using it when a more precise or specific term is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

An amount of

Focuses on the quantity or sum, emphasizing the numerical value rather than representation.

A number of

Highlights the count or quantity, often used when precision isn't critical.

An estimate of

Implies an approximate calculation or judgment, rather than an exact value.

A representation of

Emphasizes the symbolic or illustrative aspect, rather than the literal quantity.

A symbol of

Highlights the symbolic meaning and representation.

An image of

Focuses on visual depiction rather than numerical value.

A metaphor for

Highlights the use of figurative language to represent something else.

A depiction of

Focuses on representation or portrayal, often in art or literature.

An indication of

Suggests something that points to or signifies something else, often as evidence.

A measurement of

Implies precise calculation or ascertainment of size, amount, or degree.

FAQs

How can I use "a figure of" in a sentence?

"A figure of" can be used to refer to a specific amount or quantity, as in "The report quoted "a figure of" $1 million in losses". It can also refer to a person or character, like "She became "a figure of" importance in the community".

What are some alternatives to using "a figure of" when referring to a quantity?

If you're referring to a specific amount, consider alternatives such as "an amount of", "a sum of", or "a total of". For example, instead of ""a figure of" 1000", you could say "an amount of 1000".

Is it correct to use "a figure of speech" in formal writing?

Yes, "a figure of speech" is a standard and accepted term in both formal and informal writing. It refers to a word or phrase used in a non-literal sense for rhetorical effect.

When should I use "a figure of" versus "an image of"?

Use "a figure of" when referring to a numerical quantity or an abstract concept. Use "an image of" when referring to a visual representation or likeness. For example: "A figure of speech" (abstract concept), vs. "an image of a bird" (visual representation).