slim figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slim figure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a person's physical appearance, as in this example: "She wore a slim dress that showed off her slim figure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Now here he was in West Yorkshire, a slim figure with collar-length brown hair.

The New Yorker

Belleroche was extraordinarily handsome, with a long, sinewy neck, a slim figure and delicately carved features.

The New York Times - Arts

He was 63 and grey-haired, but had kept his slim figure and his handsome, sensitive face.

The Guardian - Film

Nancy, readers are told over and over, was blue-eyed, with "titian" blonde hair and a slim figure.

The New York Times - Style

The interior designer-turned television presenter said she credits her intense exercise regime for her slim figure.

Independent

Outside, he saw her on the far side of the street, halfway down the next block, a slim figure wearing a white shirt and black gym leggings.

The New York Times - Style

Jane Black Refrigerator 1: "This middle-aged woman lives alone and is clearly concerned with her health and trying to maintain at least a moderately slim figure.

The New York Times

America's next top model has round flashing eyes, short hair, a skin-and-bones face, and an unusual, though slim, figure.

The New York Times

Michaelson, whose slim figure presents an obvious contrast to Syrnikov's, paused and added, "If you need proof, look at Maksim, and look at me".

The New Yorker

A slim figure with curly hair, Grady, I had been told by other organizers, would be joining the Army after graduation.

The New Yorker

Indeed, she is about 5ft 6in, tall for the times in which she lived; a slim figure with an oval face and heavily lidded eyes".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's appearance, consider the connotations of "slim". Use it when you want to convey elegance or fitness, but be mindful of potentially negative associations with extreme thinness.

Common error

Avoid using "slim figure" in contexts that could be perceived as body-shaming or promoting unrealistic beauty standards. Focus on health and fitness rather than solely on size.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slim figure" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, where "slim" modifies the noun "figure". According to Ludwig, this phrase is used to characterize someone's physical appearance by emphasizing their slenderness. The phrase often appears in contexts related to fashion, health, and personal descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slim figure" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe someone's physical appearance, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a descriptive noun phrase, primarily used to convey an image of attractiveness or fitness. However, it is important to use this phrase sensitively, avoiding contexts that could be perceived as judgmental or body-shaming. Ludwig's examples showcase its frequent use in news and media, as well as general writing, indicating a neutral to informal register. Alternative phrases such as "slender physique" or "lean frame" can be used to add nuance or avoid potential negative connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slender physique

Replaces "figure" with "physique", suggesting a more athletic or toned body shape.

thin build

Uses "build" instead of "figure", implying overall body structure.

lean frame

Emphasizes the lack of excess weight and suggests a well-defined structure.

slight build

Indicates a small and delicate body structure.

trim silhouette

Focuses on the outline of the body, suggesting neatness and lack of bulk.

svelte form

Implies elegance and gracefulness in addition to slimness.

athletic build

Suggests a lean, muscular body type achieved through exercise.

petite frame

Implies a small and slender body, often used for women.

willowy figure

Suggests a tall and slender figure, reminiscent of a willow tree.

underweight physique

Focuses on the lack of mass implying very low weight.

FAQs

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

You can use "slim figure" to describe someone's physical appearance, such as: "The model showcased the designer's clothes, highlighting her "slim figure"."

What are some alternatives to "slim figure"?

Alternatives include "slender physique", "lean frame", or "svelte form" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe someone as having a "slim figure"?

While generally acceptable, be mindful of the context. It's best to use such descriptions sensitively and avoid reinforcing unrealistic body image expectations.

What is the difference between "slim figure" and "skinny figure"?

"Slim figure" generally implies a healthy and proportionate thinness, while "skinny figure" can suggest an unhealthy or excessively thin appearance. Using "slim figure" is often more positive and less judgmental.