a major figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an important or influential person in a particular field or context. Example: "Albert Einstein is considered a major figure in the field of physics due to his groundbreaking theories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Stevens was a major figure… Just a year ago, I gave up sweets.

The New Yorker

Papadapoulos was hardly a major figure.

The New Yorker

He was not a major figure in the Afghan war.

The Guardian

Jackson is a major figure on the public stage.

The New York Times

Ginsberg becomes socially, culturally, politically a major figure.

The Guardian - Books

French army officer, a major figure in the Dreyfus case.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ruth was a major figure in revolutionizing America's national game.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was a major figure in 20th-century Italian literature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He is considered a major figure in Italian Neorealism.

Encyclopedia Britannica

BY any reasonable definition David Gerrold is a major figure in science fiction.

The New York Times

Thorpe's status as a major figure of the establishment was in his favour.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a major figure" to highlight someone's significant impact or role in a specific domain, ensuring the context clearly indicates their area of influence.

Common error

Avoid using "a major figure" for individuals with only localized or minor influence. Ensure their contributions have a broad and demonstrable impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major figure" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to identify and characterize an individual who holds significant importance or influence within a particular context. As Ludwig AI shows, it is widely used in various contexts to denote prominence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a major figure" is a common and correct phrase used to describe someone with considerable importance or influence. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that the phrase is versatile, appearing frequently in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to ensure the subject genuinely warrants such a description. Considering alternatives like "a notable figure" or "an influential person" can also refine your writing. Avoiding overuse and ensuring accurate representation will enhance the impact of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a notable figure

Emphasizes the quality of being worthy of attention or recognition.

a central figure

Highlights the importance of a person or thing in the center of something.

a prominent individual

Suggests a position of importance or fame.

a person of influence

Highlights person's ability to affect decisions or actions.

an influential person

Highlights the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something.

a significant individual

Highlights that person's importance or consequence.

an important person

A more general way to indicate prominence or influence.

a leading light

Implies a source of inspiration and guidance.

a key player

Indicates a crucial role in a particular activity or field.

an esteemed person

Suggests that person is well respected.

FAQs

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

Use "a major figure" to describe someone who has had a significant impact in their field. For example, "Marie Curie is considered "a major figure" in the history of science".

What's a more formal alternative to "a major figure"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "a prominent individual" or "an influential person".

Is it appropriate to use "a major figure" in informal writing?

While generally suitable for formal contexts, "a major figure" can also be used informally if the subject's impact is widely recognized. However, consider alternatives like "a key player" for a more casual tone.

What's the difference between "a major figure" and "a minor figure"?

"A major figure" indicates someone of great importance and influence, while "a minor figure" refers to someone with little or no significant impact or recognition.