striking figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "striking figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that stands out due to their appearance, presence, or impact. Example: "The artist was a striking figure at the gallery, drawing everyone's attention with her vibrant attire and confident demeanor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She's a very striking figure.

The Guardian

She was a very striking figure.

The New Yorker

Norquist cuts an even more striking figure.

The New York Times - Books

Chidi Ukwu cuts a striking figure.

The Guardian

At 6ft 9in, he cut a striking figure.

The Guardian - Sport

Lucas was "a striking figure — tall and stocky.

The New Yorker

Mr. Lewis cut a striking figure in Washington.

The New York Times

Though not a striking figure, he conducted himself well.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The most striking figure is perhaps the most obvious.

The New York Times

Mr. Duvall, who appears in almost every scene, cuts a striking figure.

The New York Times

Mr. Armitage will cut a striking figure in the halls of Foggy Bottom.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "impressive presence" or "notable appearance" to add variety to your writing and tailor the phrase to the specific aspect you want to highlight.

Common error

While "striking figure" is generally acceptable, overuse in highly formal or academic writing can make your text sound less sophisticated. Opt for more precise language when describing individuals or statistics in these contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "striking figure" primarily functions as a descriptive term. Based on Ludwig AI, it is used to describe a person or thing that is easily noticed or memorable due to their appearance or qualities. It can act as a noun phrase functioning as a subject or object within a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "striking figure" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe someone or something that is easily noticed or memorable. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While highly versatile, it's important to consider synonyms like "impressive presence" or "notable appearance" to tailor your writing to the specific nuance you wish to convey. Although generally acceptable, in overly formal writing, opt for more precise language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impressive presence

Focuses on the impact and feeling of authority someone conveys.

unforgettable presence

Conveys the idea that someone's impact is strong and lasting.

notable appearance

Emphasizes the visual aspect and how someone looks.

distinctive figure

Emphasizes unique characteristics that make someone recognizable.

remarkable individual

Highlights someone's special qualities or achievements.

memorable person

Implies that someone leaves a lasting impression.

conspicuous person

Stresses how easily someone is noticed.

prominent personality

Indicates someone who is well-known and influential.

standout character

Highlights someone who differs significantly from the norm.

eye-catching person

Focuses on the visually attractive or attention-grabbing qualities.

FAQs

What does it mean to describe someone as a "striking figure"?

Describing someone as a "striking figure" means they are easily noticed and memorable, often due to their appearance, personality, or achievements. It suggests they stand out in some way.

What can I say instead of "striking figure"?

You can use alternatives like "impressive presence", "notable appearance", or "remarkable individual" depending on the specific context and what aspect you want to emphasize.

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

Yes, "striking figure" is generally appropriate, but consider the tone and audience. In highly formal or academic contexts, more precise language may be preferable to avoid sounding too casual. Consider replacing it with alternatives such as "prominent personality" or "distinctive figure".

How does "striking figure" differ from "remarkable figure"?

"Striking figure" often refers to someone's appearance or immediate impression, while "remarkable figure" emphasizes their notable qualities, achievements, or impact over time. A remarkable figure is impressive for their accomplishments, while a striking figure is impressive due to their appearance or presence.