a main figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a main figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a primary or significant person in a particular context, such as a story, event, or organization. Example: "In the novel, the protagonist serves as a main figure who drives the plot forward and influences other characters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

He played a similar role at the German Finance Ministry and has been a main figure in negotiations on how to deal with the sovereign debt crisis.

The New York Times

General Rifi was a main figure in the Internal Security Forces and whose clout and expertise will be difficult to replace.

The New York Times

Together with Mustafa Reşid Paşa and Fuad Paşa, he was a main figure of the Tanzimat (Reorganization) period (1839 c. 1870) in Ottoman history.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Kolmogorov said Mr. Gusinsky was a suspect in a fraud case surrounding his Media-Most company, while Mr. Berezovsky was a "main figure" -- not necessarily a suspect -- in a case involving the embezzlement of funds from the Aeroflot airline.

The New York Times

In an interview, former Representative Phil English, a Republican from Pennsylvania who once led the Congressional steel caucus, said Mr. Santorum was a main figure within the group in advancing its cause with the new Bush White House.

The New York Times

Or you might see a disgraced business tycoon or a fallen sporting idol like Mike Tyson, or a main figure from the hottest tabloid true-crime drama of the moment.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Additionally, to further illustrate all dynamic fold changes we moved a supplemental figure into the main figures, creating a new main figure, Figure 4.

eLife

The data are documented in a novel main figure.

eLife

We now show representative ssTEM and ssET images of these vesicles in a new main Figure.

eLife

However, eLife policies state that every piece of supplemental material should be related to a particular main figure.

eLife

After all, Edward Everett Hale wrote a book that must absolutely resonate with Mr. Snowden and his plight: "The Man Without a Country," whose main figure is tried for treason and cries out before the judge, "I wish I may never hear of the United States again!" Walter Kirn's "Up in the Air" would continue the travel theme.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a main figure" to clearly identify someone or something as being of primary importance in a given context. Ensure the context is clear so the significance of the figure is understood.

Common error

Avoid using "a main figure" in situations where the importance of the figure isn't clearly established. Ensure the reader understands why the person or thing is considered 'main' within the specific situation. Provide sufficient details to justify the designation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a main figure" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving to identify an entity of central importance. Ludwig AI identifies its proper usage across a variety of contexts, denoting a significant person or element within a particular situation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a main figure" is a grammatically sound and usable English expression employed to denote the central or primary entity within a given context. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and demonstrates its usage across diverse sources like news media, scientific publications, encyclopedias, and wikis. While it isn't exceedingly common, it serves as a clear and effective way to spotlight significant individuals, concepts, or elements in various scenarios. Related alternatives include "a central figure", "a key player", and "a leading figure", providing nuanced options for expressing similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a central figure

Replaces "main" with "central", emphasizing the role as a focal point.

a key player

Replaces "figure" with "player", suggesting active involvement and influence.

a leading figure

Replaces "main" with "leading", highlighting prominence and influence.

a prominent figure

Replaces "main" with "prominent", emphasizing visibility and recognition.

an important person

Replaces "figure" with "person", making the phrase more direct and less figurative.

a principal actor

Replaces "figure" with "actor", highlighting the role in a series of events.

a major force

Shifts the focus from a person to an influential entity or factor.

a significant individual

Replaces "main figure" with a more formal and descriptive term.

a primary influence

Focuses on the aspect of influence rather than overall importance.

a central character

Specifically refers to characters in narratives or stories.

FAQs

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

Use "a main figure" to describe someone or something that plays a primary or central role in a particular situation, event, or narrative. For example, "The CEO was "a main figure" in the company's turnaround."

What are some alternatives to "a main figure"?

You can use alternatives such as "a central figure", "a key player", or "a leading figure" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "main figure" or "key figure"?

Both ""a main figure"" and "a key figure" are acceptable, but "key figure" often implies a more strategic or essential role, while "main figure" simply denotes primary importance or focus.

Can "a main figure" refer to an object or concept, or only to a person?

"A main figure" can refer to an object, concept, or person that holds primary importance within a specific context. For instance, "Technology is "a main figure" in modern economic growth."