representative figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "representative figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a person or object that exemplifies or symbolizes a particular group, idea, or concept. Example: "In the study of modern art, Picasso is often considered a representative figure of the Cubist movement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Bruno -- a representative figure?

The New York Times - Books

A masterly biography of the representative figure of the Renaissance.

The New York Times - Books

Emigration had not dampened his taste, or his talent, for being a representative figure.

The New Yorker

There is one sense in which Rankin is a representative figure.

The Guardian - Books

In that sense, a more representative figure of the party's young following might be someone like Ali al-Sayyed.

The New York Times

The trouble is, though, that Londonderry was too much of an oddity to be a representative figure.

The Guardian - Books

Travelling to the limits of ambition, Clyde ceases to be a commonplace representative figure — an empty-headed American boy.

The New Yorker

Although we assume that our sample gives a representative figure about European narcolepsy patients, a selection bias is possible.

Nature

This is particularly true of the process of consolidating into a single representative figure different people's valuations of a non-market good ("views"), as measured by opinion survey.

Measurement

Alec Soth is a representative figure: a member of Magnum whose large colour prints command high prices on the gallery circuit.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The remaining 12% of the OGs are non-representative (Figure 4B) and include multiple predicted ORFs from at least one member.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "representative figure" when you want to emphasize that someone or something embodies the characteristics of a larger group, era, or concept. Ensure the context clearly establishes the connection between the figure and what they represent.

Common error

Avoid using "representative figure" if the subject's relevance is limited or doesn't accurately reflect the broader context. Ensure that the figure genuinely embodies the traits or qualities you're attributing to the larger group or concept.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "representative figure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

36%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "representative figure" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe someone or something that embodies the characteristics of a larger group, concept, or era. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various domains, including news, science, and academia. While it can be used in everyday conversation, it is most commonly found in more formal contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject accurately reflects the broader context and avoids overgeneralization. Consider alternatives such as "symbolic figure" or "typical example" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

symbolic figure

Indicates the subject represents something beyond its literal form.

typical example

Focuses on the exemplifying nature of the subject.

model instance

Highlights the subject as a standard or ideal representation.

classic case

Emphasizes the subject's role as a well-known and illustrative example.

epitome

Indicates the subject is the perfect example of something.

prime example

Stresses the subject's excellence as a representation.

archetype

Refers to the subject as an original model or pattern.

standard bearer

Implies the subject leads or represents a movement or idea.

textbook illustration

Suggests the subject is a clear and instructive example.

hallmark

Highlights the subject as a distinguishing feature or characteristic.

FAQs

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

You can use "representative figure" to describe someone or something that embodies the qualities or characteristics of a larger group or concept. For example, "In the study of modern art, Picasso is often considered a "representative figure" of the Cubist movement".

What can I say instead of "representative figure"?

You can use alternatives like "typical example", "symbolic figure", or "classic case" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "representative figure" or "typical figure"?

Both "representative figure" and "typical figure" can be correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Representative figure" implies embodying a larger group or concept, while "typical figure" simply means a common or usual example.

What's the difference between "representative figure" and "distinguished figure"?

A "representative figure" embodies the characteristics of a group or era, while a "distinguished figure" is someone who is notable or eminent, often due to their achievements or qualities.