a minor figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a minor figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone who has a relatively small or insignificant role or presence in a particular context, such as history, literature, or a specific event. Example: "While many celebrated the achievements of the main leaders, a minor figure in the movement played a crucial role behind the scenes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Philomela or Philomel (, Philomēlē) is a minor figure in Greek mythology and is frequently invoked as a direct and figurative symbol in literary, artistic, and musical works in the Western canon.

Wikipedia

I felt like a minor figure in a major tragedy.

The New York Times - Health

A minor figure, but a player nonetheless, was Charles Brandon.

Britannica

Though scholars now recognize her importance, she was a minor figure in biblical accounts.

The New York Times

One imagines a chaplain to have been rather a minor figure on a ship.

The Guardian - Books

A minor figure in the novel, she is the miserable, impoverished widow of a hopeless drunk.

The New York Times

Whoever succeeds him is bound to seem a minor figure by comparison.

The New York Times - Magazine

Until his appointment, Raheem said, Baghdadi was regarded as a minor figure, quiet and uncharismatic.

The Guardian

If a minor figure, he nonetheless had a better class of admirer (eg, Robert Musil).

The Guardian - Books

Monroe would likely have remained only a minor figure but for her ambition to establish a forum for contemporary poets.

Britannica

Instead, Quixote is a minor figure who helps Kitri and Basilio, two young lovers, escape parental disapproval and get married.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a minor figure" to accurately represent someone or something that has a relatively small impact or influence in a given situation or field. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a minor figure" when you actually mean someone is unimportant in general. The phrase implies they are minor within a specific context, not necessarily overall.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a minor figure" functions as a noun phrase that serves as a subject complement or object complement. It describes someone or something that holds a position of lesser importance or influence within a particular context. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a minor figure" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe someone or something of lesser importance within a specific context. As indicated by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable across various domains. It frequently appears in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Wiki sources. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the scope within which the individual or entity is considered minor. Alternatives include "an insignificant person" or "a secondary player". Avoid using it if you mean the person is unimportant in general rather than unimportant in a specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an insignificant person

Focuses on the lack of importance of a person.

a secondary player

Highlights the supporting role rather than the main one.

a person of little consequence

Emphasizes the lack of impact or importance.

a marginal character

Indicates someone on the periphery, not central to the action.

a small-time operator

Suggests someone involved in petty or unimportant activities.

a bit player

Refers to someone with a very small and unimportant role.

a negligible entity

Stresses the almost nonexistent impact or influence.

a subordinate individual

Highlights the lower rank or position of the person.

an inconsequential element

Focuses on the lack of importance within a larger system.

a face in the crowd

Implies anonymity and lack of individual importance.

FAQs

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

You can use "a minor figure" to describe someone or something that is not very important or well-known within a specific context. For instance, "He was "a minor figure" in the company, with little influence on major decisions."

What are some alternatives to "a minor figure"?

Alternatives include "an insignificant person", "a secondary player", or "a person of little consequence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a minor figure" in formal writing?

Yes, "a minor figure" is suitable for formal writing, as it is a neutral and widely understood expression. However, consider the specific context and whether a more precise term might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "a minor figure" and "an extra"?

"An extra" typically refers to someone who appears in the background of a film or play and has no speaking lines or significant role. "A minor figure" is broader and can apply to anyone who has a small or relatively unimportant role in any context, not just in entertainment.