a representative figure

USAGE SUMMARY

'a representative figure' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to someone or something that is seen as typical of a particular group or type of thing. For example, "The Statue of Liberty is a representative figure of freedom, hope, and opportunity in the United States."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Bruno -- a representative figure?

The New York Times - Books

Emigration had not dampened his taste, or his talent, for being a representative figure.

The New Yorker

There is one sense in which Rankin is a representative figure.

The Guardian - Books

Although we assume that our sample gives a representative figure about European narcolepsy patients, a selection bias is possible.

Nature

The trouble is, though, that Londonderry was too much of an oddity to be a representative figure.

The Guardian - Books

Alec Soth is a representative figure: a member of Magnum whose large colour prints command high prices on the gallery circuit.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

The median is a typically a more representative figure as the mean can be skewed by a handful of highly paid employees.

The Guardian

Travelling to the limits of ambition, Clyde ceases to be a commonplace representative figure — an empty-headed American boy.

The New Yorker

Advocates on both sides have used other measures in an effort to portray a more representative figure of adoption services as a share of total services.

The Washington Post

A representative image is presented in Figure 7.

Nanoscale Research Letters

A representative image is given in Figure 6.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a representative figure", consider the specific context to ensure the figure genuinely embodies the intended group or idea. Avoid using it loosely to describe any random individual.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a representative figure" speaks for everyone in a group. While they embody certain characteristics, individual experiences may vary significantly. Always be mindful of diverse perspectives within the represented group.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a representative figure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies a person or thing that exemplifies or embodies a larger group, idea, or trend. Ludwig AI shows numerous instances of this usage across varied sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

33%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a representative figure" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote someone or something that embodies the characteristics of a larger group or idea. As highlighted by Ludwig, the phrase frequently appears in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. To ensure clarity, it is essential to use this term when the figure accurately and fairly reflects the intended group, avoiding overgeneralization. Alternatives like "a typical example" or "a symbolic figure" can be used for nuanced expression. Ludwig AI confirms the broad applicability and proper usage of this phrase across diverse sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical example

This alternative focuses on the exemplification aspect, highlighting that the figure is a good example of something.

a symbolic figure

This emphasizes the symbolic role of the figure, suggesting it represents abstract ideas or values.

a model representative

This suggests the figure is not only representative but also serves as an ideal example to be emulated.

a prime illustration

This highlights the illustrative quality, showing the figure clearly demonstrates a concept or trend.

a standard bearer

Implies that the person actively promotes and defends a specific ideology or set of beliefs.

an emblematic person

Emphasizes that the individual serves as a symbol or emblem for a broader group or movement.

a leading light

This suggests the person is not just representative but is also prominent and influential within their field.

a personification of

Highlights the embodiment aspect, indicating the figure is a living example of a particular quality or concept.

a fair representation

This alternative stresses the accuracy and balance of the representation.

a cross-section of

This refers to a small sample of something that is used to represent the whole, focusing on diversity and variety.

FAQs

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

You can use "a representative figure" to describe someone or something that embodies a larger group or concept. For example, "The CEO is "a representative figure" of the company's values".

What are some alternatives to "a representative figure"?

Some alternatives include "a typical example", "a symbolic figure", or "a model representative", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "a representative figure" in formal writing?

Yes, "a representative figure" is perfectly acceptable in formal writing. It's a clear and concise way to describe someone or something that embodies a larger group or concept.

What's the difference between "a representative figure" and "an influential figure"?

"A representative figure" embodies the characteristics of a group, while "an influential figure" has the power to affect events or people. While someone can be both, the terms emphasize different aspects of their role.