a key figure

USAGE SUMMARY

"a key figure" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone who is particularly important or influential in a given situation. For example, "The Prime Minister is a key figure in British politics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's a key figure.

Independent

A key figure is the "facilitator".

The Economist

And England's captain was a key figure.

The Guardian - Sport

Why is Bannon a key figure?

The Guardian

"I wasn't a key figure in any cover-up.

The Guardian - Sport

"He is a key figure in 20th-century culture".

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. Cohen was a key figure in the orchestra's rebirth.

The New York Times - Arts

Dank is a key figure in the Essendon supplements saga.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr Borodin is a key figure in the alleged scandal.

The Guardian

The outsider is a key figure in your novels.

The Guardian - Books

"There were two groups in government," a key figure said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a key figure", ensure the context clearly establishes the area in which the person holds importance. Avoid vagueness by specifying their role or impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a key figure" to describe someone with only minor influence. Reserve the phrase for individuals with demonstrably significant impact or responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key figure" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive to identify someone of significant importance or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Formal & Business

13%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key figure" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that serves to emphasize the importance or influence of an individual in a specific situation. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, it can also be present in Formal & Business contexts. When employing the expression, clarity and context are important to effectively convey the individual's role or impact. Alternatives such as "pivotal person" or "influential individual" can be used to provide more nuance. By understanding the phrase's grammatical function, communicative purpose, and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively use "a key figure" in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential figure

Underscores the absolute necessity of the person in a particular context.

an influential individual

Focuses on the power the person wields to affect decisions and outcomes.

a pivotal person

Emphasizes the turning point or critical nature of the person's role.

a significant leader

Specifically denotes leadership and the importance of that leadership role.

an important player

Suggests active involvement and significance within a specific arena.

a crucial player

Highlights the decisive nature of the person's involvement.

a central character

Highlights the core nature of the individual's position, especially in a narrative.

a critical element

Shifts the focus to highlight the person as an indispensable component.

a leading light

Implies guidance and inspiration due to the person's actions or ideas.

a dominant force

Conveys power and strong influence over events or people.

FAQs

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

Use "a key figure" to describe someone crucial or influential in a particular context. For instance, "The CEO was "a key figure" in the company's turnaround."

What are some alternatives to saying "a key figure"?

Alternatives include "a pivotal person", "an important player", or "an influential individual" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "key figure" or "important person"?

"Key figure" implies a specific and critical role within a defined situation, while "important person" is a more general term. Use "key figure" when emphasizing a specific function or impact.

What distinguishes "a key figure" from "a central figure"?

"A central figure" often denotes someone at the heart of an event or narrative, whereas "a key figure" highlights someone essential to the functioning or outcome of something. The distinction lies in whether the person is central to the story or essential to the process.