iconic figure

USAGE SUMMARY

"iconic figure" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is widely known and admired, often symbolic of an era, movement, or cause. For example, Rosa Parks is an iconic figure of the civil rights movement.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's an iconic figure.

The Guardian - Sport

He's such an iconic figure.

The New York Times

"Rebus is such an iconic figure.

Independent

For us, he became an iconic figure.

The Guardian

"[Patrick] was just such an iconic figure.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

[She laughs.] RITCHIE -- ----is an iconic figure.

The New York Times

Bernie Cornfeld was an iconic figure.

The Guardian

And then she became an iconic figure herself.

The Guardian - Music

Boris Berezovsky was the iconic figure of the oligarchic age.

The New York Times - Magazine

Ben Fairless at US Steel was an iconic figure.

The New York Times

"And Karajan is an iconic figure in music".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "iconic figure" to describe individuals who have achieved widespread recognition and are representative of certain values or movements. Ensure the context clearly establishes the person's significance.

Common error

Avoid labeling someone an "iconic figure" without providing clear evidence of their widespread recognition and influence. Ensure the person truly embodies significant cultural or historical importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "iconic figure" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It serves to identify an individual who has attained widespread recognition and influence, often symbolizing specific values or historical significance, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "iconic figure" is a widely used and generally accepted term to describe individuals of significant influence and recognition. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news, academic, and general media. When using this phrase, ensure that the individual truly embodies a symbolic importance beyond mere fame. Consider alternatives like "legendary personality" or "celebrated individual" for slightly different nuances. By using "iconic figure" judiciously, you effectively communicate the profound impact and enduring legacy of noteworthy individuals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legendary personality

Focuses more on the person's fame and the stories surrounding them.

celebrated individual

Highlights the widespread admiration and recognition of the person.

renowned personage

Emphasizes the person's established reputation and importance.

esteemed character

Highlights respect and high regard for the individual.

influential leader

Highlights their capacity to affect events or the actions of others.

symbolic presence

Focuses on their representative role and the values they embody.

venerated figure

Emphasizes the deep respect and reverence they inspire.

historic persona

Highlights their significant impact on historical events.

distinguished notable

Highlights the noteworthiness and excellent reputation of the individual.

important person

Highlights the significance or impact of the person.

FAQs

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

Use "iconic figure" to describe someone widely recognized and admired, often representing a particular era, movement, or set of values. For instance, "Nelson Mandela is an iconic figure in the fight against apartheid".

What are some alternatives to "iconic figure"?

You can use alternatives like "legendary personality", "celebrated individual", or "renowned personage" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "iconic figure" in formal writing?

Yes, "iconic figure" is suitable for formal writing. It is a well-understood and widely accepted term for describing influential and recognizable individuals.

What distinguishes an "iconic figure" from a simply famous person?

While fame implies widespread recognition, an "iconic figure" embodies deeper cultural or historical significance, representing values, movements, or eras. An iconic figure is not only known but also deeply influential and symbolic.