notable figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'notable figure' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a person who is well-known and respected for their achievements or characteristics. For example, "Martin Luther King Jr. is a notable figure for his tireless work to achieve civil rights for African Americans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Among the 16,544 in attendance was one notable figure.

The New York Times

Two new releases come from a notable figure in the Baroque lute revival, Hopkinson Smith.

The New York Times - Arts

But Rossini isn't the only notable figure to have died on Friday 13th.

Independent

Each month Mr. Baran and Mr. Sachs ask a notable figure to pick an inspirational film.

The New York Times

As Duchin's crowd dwindled to roughly a dozen, one notable figure remained.

The New York Times

For 40 years Colette has been a notable figure about Paris, famous for her dinners and most justes.

The New Yorker

Interestingly, however, there was a notable figure who continued to argue for their existence well into the 20th century.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Notable figures from Europe and Asia stopped by.

The New York Times - Science

Other notable figures in SNCC included Ella Baker, Julian Bond, Rubye Robinson, and Fannie Lou Hamer.

Britannica

A good source for 19th and early 20th century advertising, illustrations, culture, history, literature, and notable figures.

University of California, Berkeley

Provides access to information about 19th and early 20th century advertising, illustrations, culture, history, literature, and notable figures.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "notable figure" when you want to highlight someone's importance or reputation in a particular field or context.

Common error

Avoid using "notable figure" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "famous person" or "important individual" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "notable figure" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It identifies an individual of importance or distinction. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage, supported by numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "notable figure" is a noun phrase used to describe an individual who is well-known and respected for their accomplishments or standing in a particular field. It's deemed grammatically correct and very common. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans across diverse contexts, particularly in news, academia, and encyclopedic sources. The phrase carries a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for a variety of writing styles, though avoiding overuse in very informal settings is recommended. For alternative expressions, consider using "prominent individual" or "significant person" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Prominent individual

Focuses on the individual's standing and visibility in a particular field.

Significant person

Emphasizes the individual's importance or impact.

Well-known personality

Highlights the individual's familiarity to the public.

Distinguished character

Suggests the individual possesses admirable qualities and achievements.

Important personage

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of referring to someone of importance.

Renowned figure

Highlights the individual's fame and recognition.

Leading light

Implies the individual is an inspiration or guide to others.

Influential player

Emphasizes the individual's power to affect events or decisions.

Celebrated name

Focuses on the individual's fame and public recognition.

Person of note

A concise way of indicating someone who is worthy of attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "notable figure" to describe someone who is well-known and respected. For example, "Nelson Mandela is a "notable figure" in the fight against apartheid".

What can I say instead of "notable figure"?

You can use alternatives like "prominent individual", "significant person", or "well-known personality" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "notable figure" is suitable for formal writing, especially when referring to someone of significance in history, politics, or academia.

What's the difference between "notable figure" and "famous person"?

"Notable figure" often implies respect and importance, while "famous person" simply indicates widespread recognition, which might not always be positive. You may use "renowned figure" instead if you want to convey something similar.