secondary figures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "secondary figures" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to characters or elements that are not the main focus but still play a role in the narrative or analysis. Example: "In the novel, the secondary figures contribute to the development of the protagonist's character and the overall theme."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

But the Trump campaign is not without secondary figures.

The New Yorker

Indeed, the puppets here are decidedly secondary figures, not much more than props.

The New York Times

DL: Pittsburgh's secondary figures to have more dandruff without Troy Polamalu, and they're bound to miss defensive wiz Dick LeBeau.

The Guardian - Sport

(One of the book's secondary figures remarks that $1 million "was a lot of money in 1959").

The New York Times - Books

And the reader drifts past many so-so secondary figures and generic tropical scenery before her presence is really felt.

The New York Times - Books

This encyclopedia, complete with a bibliography and biographies of secondary figures, describes a network of far-right littérateurs and tastemakers who share a love of symmetry and order.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

But the defendant may be just a secondary figure.

The New York Times

She is a secondary figure in King's book; Gilroy made her an equal protagonist.

The New Yorker

A vivid but secondary figure in his own time, Malcolm X had achieved the status of an icon.

The New Yorker

He also became the central or secondary figure of a number of popular tales.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In several of the best, the main account is quietly hollowed out by the vague counterstory of a secondary figure -- someone marginal, unconsidered, powerless.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex system or event, use "secondary figures" to acknowledge the contributions of those who are not in primary roles but still play a significant part.

Common error

Avoid dismissing the importance of "secondary figures" in your analysis. Even though they are not the main focus, their actions and interactions can significantly influence the primary narrative or outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "secondary figures" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to individuals or entities that are less central than the primary focus. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "secondary figures" is a noun phrase used to denote individuals or elements that are less central but still important within a given context. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various reliable sources, including news media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. The phrase is neutral in register and serves the communicative purpose of identifying supporting roles. Alternative phrases include "minor characters", "supporting roles", and "background players". When using this phrase, it is crucial to acknowledge the impact of these figures, as their actions can significantly influence the primary narrative or outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minor characters

Focuses specifically on characters in a narrative context, differing in its application to fictional works.

supporting roles

Highlights the supportive function of these figures, shifting the emphasis to their contribution to the main elements.

background players

Emphasizes their presence in the background rather than as central actors, reducing their perceived importance.

peripheral figures

Indicates their location on the periphery or outer edges of the main action, suggesting less direct involvement.

lesser known individuals

Highlights the lack of widespread recognition, differing by focusing on public awareness.

subordinate entities

Emphasizes their lower rank or status, adding a hierarchical dimension to the description.

auxiliary personnel

Specifically refers to personnel providing assistance, narrowing the context to organizational support.

additional elements

Broadens the scope to include non-human elements that are secondary in importance, differing by including non-person entities.

concomitant actors

Highlights the accompanying nature of these figures, specifying that they act in conjunction with the main figures.

ancillary components

Focuses on their role as supporting components, narrowing the scope to parts of a larger system.

FAQs

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

You can use "secondary figures" to refer to individuals or elements that are not the main focus but still play a role. For example: "The novel's strength lies in its portrayal of both the protagonist and the compelling "minor characters"."

What's the difference between "secondary figures" and "minor characters"?

While both terms describe non-central roles, "secondary figures" can apply to any context, whereas "minor characters" specifically refers to characters in a narrative. You might use "secondary figures" in a historical analysis, but "minor characters" is best suited for discussing literature or film.

What can I say instead of "secondary figures"?

Alternatives include "supporting roles", "background players", or "peripheral figures", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "secondary figures" in formal writing?

Yes, "secondary figures" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a neutral and descriptive term commonly used in academic, news and media, and encyclopedic contexts.