key figures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key figures" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to important people who have influence in a certain field or situation. For example: "The key figures in the negotiations were the leaders of both countries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He annoyed key figures on Capitol Hill.

The Economist

What key figures arose during this time?

The New York Times

We know who the key figures are.

The Guardian

should have assembled all the key figures.

The New York Times - Sports

The key figures remain the same.

The New York Times - Sports

Many of the key figures have disappeared.

The Guardian

Under Reagan, the key figures are all bureaucrats.

The New Yorker

There are three key figures in the Pozzo family.

The Guardian - Sport

Key figures in the strike would be arrested and jailed.

The New Yorker

And key figures in the G.O.P., including donors, understand that.

The New Yorker

Both would become key figures in Mvula's career to come.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing people with significant influence or importance within a specific field, use "key figures" to clearly highlight their prominence. For example, "The "key figures" in the scientific community are pushing for more research funding."

Common error

While "key figures" is widely applicable, avoid using it excessively in very informal or casual conversation where simpler terms like "important people" might be more appropriate. Overusing it can make your language sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key figures" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It typically identifies individuals or entities of significant importance or influence in a given context, as evidenced by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key figures" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote individuals or entities of significant importance or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread usage across diverse contexts, especially in News & Media. While versatile, it's best to reserve "key figures" for contexts requiring a neutral to formal tone and avoid overuse in casual conversation. For related phrases, consider options like "leading personalities" or "prominent individuals" to add nuance to your writing. Remember that while "key figures" usually refers to people, in some contexts, it can also refer to numbers. Overall, "key figures" is a reliable phrase when you want to highlight someone's or something's importance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant people

This alternative uses simpler language to convey the importance of the individuals involved.

leading personalities

This alternative replaces "figures" with "personalities", emphasizing the individual's role and character.

prominent individuals

Using "individuals" instead of "figures" offers a more formal tone while maintaining the focus on specific people.

major players

This alternative adopts a more informal tone, typically used in contexts like business or sports, referring to influential participants.

central characters

This is often used in narratives or historical accounts, focusing on the individuals around whom the story revolves.

principal actors

Swapping "figures" with "actors" highlights the role these individuals play in a particular event or situation.

critical members

Replacing "figures" with "members" emphasizes the individual's belonging to a group and their importance within it.

notable identities

Using "identities" instead of "figures" focuses on the recognition and reputation of the individuals.

important stakeholders

This alternative is most suitable in business contexts, highlighting those with a vested interest and influence.

chief participants

This highlights the active role and primary involvement of the individuals in a process or event.

FAQs

How can I use "key figures" in a sentence?

You can use "key figures" to refer to important people in a particular field. For example: "The "key figures" in the company's success were the CEO and the marketing director."

What's a more informal way to say "key figures"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "important people", "major players", or even just "the main people involved". These alternatives are less formal and may be better suited for casual conversations.

Are there any synonyms for "key figures" that emphasize numerical data?

While "key figures" usually refers to people, you might use phrases like "key numbers", "essential statistics", or "vital data" when discussing important numerical values.

How does "key figures" differ from "leading figures"?

"Key figures" emphasizes importance or influence, while "leading figures" typically highlights those who are at the forefront or most prominent in a particular field or movement. The nuance lies in leadership versus overall importance.