can serve as a figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can serve as a figure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that can represent or symbolize a concept, idea, or object in a figurative manner. Example: "In literature, a metaphor can serve as a figure that illustrates complex emotions in a relatable way."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Electrical bias stress measurements which can serve as a figure of merit for performance stability for a TFT device reveal Sr- and Ba-doped semiconductors to exhibit enhanced electrical stability and reduced threshold voltage shift compared to IGZO irrespective of the process temperature and preparation method.

Chemistry of Materials

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Leading up to the fight, Klitschko spoke of the importance of having one heavyweight champion who can serve as a transcendent figure.

The New York Times - Sports

In addition to serving as a guide for practitioners, the algorithm in Figure 3 (and also Figure 4) can serve as a hand-out or guide for patients on how to conduct their own bolus insulin dose adjustments.

Annals of Medicine

A similar mRNA expression pattern was observed for biglycan, a matrix molecule that can serve as a DAMP by ligating TLR2 and TLR4 (Figure 2).

Plosone

Lynne Lyman, state director of the Drug Policy Alliance's California chapter, notes that Oakland's Equity Program can serve as a model as other counties around the state figure out what their cannabis business licensing application system.

Vice

Interestingly, the proposed WMMSE precoder can serve as a starting point for the IWMMSE algorithm to speed up its convergence, as being shown in the figure.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

It can serve as a bridge to a new life".

The New York Times

A wine book can serve as a guide.

The New York Times - Food

Remember that a digital camera can serve as a scanner.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Single case can serve as a test.

Business Research

(4) An actor can serve as a sensor as well.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can serve as a figure", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is representing or symbolizing. Clarity is key in figurative language.

Common error

Avoid using "can serve as a figure" when a literal description is more appropriate. Overuse of figurative language can obscure meaning rather than enhance it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can serve as a figure" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject with a description of its potential role as a figurative representation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can serve as a figure" is used to describe the potential of something to represent an idea or concept in a figurative manner. While grammatically sound, as Ludwig AI indicates, its occurrence is relatively rare, predominantly appearing in scientific and news-related contexts. Alternatives like "can act as a representation" or "can be considered a symbol" may offer similar nuances depending on the intended meaning. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity and avoid overuse to maintain the effectiveness of the figurative language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can act as a representation

This alternative focuses on the action of representing rather than serving a symbolic role.

can function as an illustration

This emphasizes the illustrative aspect, highlighting how something clarifies or exemplifies an idea.

can be considered a symbol

This alternative directly states the symbolic nature of something.

can work as a metaphor

This specifies the figurative device being used, emphasizing a comparison between two unlike things.

can embody the concept of

This highlights the idea of something fully representing a concept.

can exemplify the idea of

This suggests that something is a prime example of an idea.

can represent symbolically

This directly indicates the act of representing something in a symbolic way.

can provide a figurative interpretation

This focuses on the act of providing an interpretation that is not literal.

can offer a symbolic meaning

This highlights the offering of a meaning that is representative or allegorical.

can be seen as an allegory

This identifies something as a story or image that carries a hidden meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "can serve as a figure" in a sentence?

Use "can serve as a figure" to describe something that represents an idea, concept, or quality in a non-literal way. For example, "In this novel, the river "can serve as a figure" for the passage of time".

What are some alternatives to "can serve as a figure"?

You can use alternatives such as "can act as a representation", "can function as an illustration", or "can be considered a symbol" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "can serve as a figure" in formal writing?

Yes, "can serve as a figure" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when discussing literature, symbolism, or abstract concepts. However, ensure that the context warrants figurative language.

What's the difference between "can serve as a figure" and "can be a symbol"?

"Can serve as a figure" implies a broader, more interpretative role, while "can be a symbol" directly states that something represents something else. The former allows for more nuanced interpretation.