a nice figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a nice figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's physical appearance, often in a complimentary manner. Example: "She has always been proud of her fitness routine, and it shows; she has a nice figure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

"Insiders say he is a nice figure for children.

The New Yorker

"Just a pretty face and a nice figure".

The New York Times

Barbie was just supposed to be a teenage girl or adult who had a nice figure.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I just remember a nice figure, this nice character, he liked to laugh and make fun".

Independent

WHAT ATTRACTED YOU? Gary: When she got out of the car and I saw she had quite a nice figure.

The New York Times

The filmmaker Derek Cianfrance, who has known Mr. Gosling for seven years and directed him in two films, chimed in, "You have a nice figure, like she does".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

I think of a woman that has a round, sexy booty, some full figured, no gap in between thighs, a nice figure-8 shape, and fully blossomed breasts.

Huffington Post

So if someone is calling you fat, it's probably because you have a nicer figure than them and they're just jealous.

WikiHow

"It's a very nice figure," he says, "but it's quite hard to keep it going in the summer months.

The Guardian

("She does have a very nice figure," Trump once told the ladies of "The View," with Ivanka sitting next to him. "Perhaps if she weren't my daughter I'd be dating her").

The New Yorker

Although that may not be substantial for individual developers, one told the Guardian: "0.575% of the in-app purchase market across all platforms would be a very nice figure to have indeed.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's appearance, ensure that using the phrase "a nice figure" is appropriate for the context and aligns with respectful communication. Consider alternative descriptions that focus on health or strength.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on phrases like "a nice figure" which can be subjective and limiting. Provide more specific and descriptive details that convey the individual's unique characteristics and attributes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nice figure" functions as a descriptive term, typically used to compliment someone's physical appearance. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is generally seen as grammatically correct and suitable for describing an attractive body shape.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a nice figure" is a common and generally accepted way to describe an attractive or pleasing body shape. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While often used in casual settings, it's essential to consider the context and audience to ensure the phrase is appropriate and respectful. For more formal situations or to add specificity, alternatives like "an attractive physique" or "a well-proportioned body" may be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a splendid figure

Replaces "nice" with a more emphatic adjective, suggesting a more impressive appearance.

a terrific figure

Similar to "splendid", offering a slightly more informal yet still positive description.

an attractive physique

Shifts the focus to overall physical build rather than just a general impression.

a pleasing form

Emphasizes the shape and aesthetics, suitable for more artistic or formal contexts.

a well-proportioned body

Highlights balance and symmetry in the physical appearance.

a shapely silhouette

Focuses on the outline of the body, often used in fashion or design contexts.

a commendable physique

Adds a sense of admiration or approval to the description of physical appearance.

a desirable shape

Highlights that the body shape is something that others would want.

a trim figure

Highlights a fit and slender physique.

a slender build

Implies a thin and graceful appearance.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says "a nice figure"?

When someone says a person has "a nice figure", they typically mean the person has an attractive or pleasing body shape. However, the specific interpretation can vary based on personal preferences and cultural contexts.

What are some alternative ways to describe someone's appearance without using "a nice figure"?

Instead of "a nice figure", you could say someone has "an attractive physique", "a pleasing form", or "a well-proportioned body". These alternatives can be more specific and less subjective.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "a nice figure" in all contexts?

No, it's not always appropriate. In professional or academic settings, it's usually better to avoid commenting on someone's physical appearance. In more casual settings, consider your audience and the potential for misinterpretation before using the phrase.

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

You can use "a nice figure" in a sentence like this: "She wears clothes that accentuate her "shapely silhouette", giving her "a splendid figure"."