figurative

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "figurative" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe language that is not meant to be interpreted literally, but rather is used to evoke a particular feeling or create a strong image. For example, "Her heart was heavy like a stone" is a figurative expression meaning that she was feeling sad.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This has the effect of making the figurative drawing more abstract, paradoxically, neutralising the shock effect of the splayed limbs, the proffered genitalia, the immediate sexual context of artist and model.

The Guardian - Arts

"To sabotage", as he points out, can have both a practical and a figurative meaning.

The Guardian - Opinion

The implication of our present velocity is that we'll have arrived at a figurative 2005 by the time the teams become reacquainted in Australia later this year.

The Guardian - Sport

Not to be confused with Nye Bevan Beyoncé beyond the pale not pail; this pale is derived from the Latin palus, a stake as used to support a fence (cf palisade); hence the figurative meaning of beyond the pale as being outside the boundary, unacceptable biannual or biennial?

The Guardian

At this level, it's a poised graphic object, but its eccentric repertoire of figurative imagery – mythical monsters, dismembered limbs, bugs and gargoyles – and its frantic, deranged textual contents violently contradict its formal elegance.

The Guardian - Arts

Schiele's work was already expressionistic and daring, taking Klimt's safely decorative eroticism a bold leap further with his figurative distortions, mannered elongations and sexual frankness.

The Guardian - Arts

Her husband, Leon Golub, was a figurative painter too, so he was out of the big picture.

The Guardian - Arts

I didn't notice Turner until I was at Camberwell art school in the early 60s, when I started thinking about figurative painting.

The Guardian - Film

Harris emerged from the final day as pace bowling's answer to Willy Wonka, limping theatrically to his mark before turning, kicking away his figurative cane and bounding unimpeded towards the crease.

The Guardian - Sport

We stop frequently as he highlights the figurative elements in David Hancock's photographs of the cave paintings and their stories – curious, poignant, some wryly humorous – of first contact between explorers, miners, hunters and the Indigenous Bininj people.

The Guardian

"We are image-makers and image-ridden".Hardly any abstract artist had returned to figurative work before.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the word "figurative", ensure the context clearly distinguishes between the literal and non-literal interpretations to avoid ambiguity. For example, if discussing art, specify whether you are referring to "figurative" art versus abstract art.

Common error

Avoid using "figurative" when a literal description is more appropriate or clear. Overusing "figurative" language can obscure meaning instead of enhancing it.

Linguistic Context

The word "figurative" primarily functions as an adjective. As Ludwig AI shows, it modifies nouns to indicate a non-literal or symbolic quality. It's often used to describe language, art, or concepts that employ figures of speech or representation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "figurative" functions as an adjective denoting a non-literal or symbolic quality. As the numerous examples that Ludwig AI returned clearly shows, the word is widely used across various domains, including News & Media and Science, indicating a broad applicability. It is grammatically correct and is commonly used to differentiate between literal and non-literal interpretations. To ensure clarity, remember to provide sufficient context when using "figurative" to avoid ambiguity. By understanding its function and usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate "figurative" into your writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

non-literal

Directly contrasts with literal meaning, indicating an interpretative layer.

metaphorical

Emphasizes the use of metaphors as a way to represent something else.

symbolic

Highlights the use of symbols to convey meaning beyond the literal.

tropical

Refers to the use of figures of speech, similar to metaphorical.

allegorical

Suggests a story or representation with a hidden, deeper meaning.

emblematic

Denotes something serving as a symbol of a particular quality or concept.

representative

Focuses on something standing in for or typifying something else.

illustrative

Implies serving as an example or explanation.

conceptual

Deals with abstract ideas or concepts rather than concrete reality.

imaginary

Suggests something not real or based on fact, but existing in the imagination.

FAQs

How is "figurative" used in art?

In art, "figurative" describes artworks that depict recognizable subjects or figures, as opposed to abstract or non-representational art. Examples include portraits, landscapes, and historical scenes, all aiming to represent something from the real world.

What's the difference between "figurative" and literal language?

"Figurative" language uses metaphors, similes, and other figures of speech to create a non-literal meaning, while literal language means exactly what it says. An example of "non-literal" language is the phrase "raining cats and dogs", which implies heavy rain.

When should I use "figurative" language in writing?

Use "figurative" language to add depth, imagery, and emotion to your writing. However, it should be used sparingly and with purpose, ensuring that it enhances rather than obscures your message. Overuse can make your writing seem convoluted.

What are some examples of "figurative" language?

"Figurative" language includes metaphors (e.g., "the world is a stage"), similes (e.g., "as brave as a lion"), personification (e.g., "the wind whispered"), and hyperbole (e.g., "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse"). Each of these uses language in a "non-literal" way to create an effect.