the largest figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the largest figure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to the single greatest number in a set, or to refer to a person who is especially important. For example, "The largest figure in this graph is the peak of 45."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

The largest figure in the painting is Malcolm X, and he, too, is picking cotton.

The New York Times

Net borrowing, which soared to €85.8 billion, or $125 billion, this year, about €48 billion more than 2009, was the largest figure since World War II.

The New York Times

The largest figure of all, the lecturer, holds his left hand poised on the cap of the jar, able at any moment to let the precious air back in and thus restore life to the bird.

The New York Times - Arts

Recently some of the finest figures have been attributed to a Belgian modeller, Joseph Willems, and these include the 21-inch "Una and the Lion," the largest figure made at Chelsea.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The number of Americans who have seen their full-time jobs chopped to part time because of weak business has swelled to more than 3.7 million — the largest figure since the government began tracking such data more than half a century ago.

The New York Times

Investment in clean energy in China rose 30 percent last year, to $51.1 billion - by far the largest figure for a single country - and represented more than 20 percent of the total global investment of $243 billion, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Of the nine categories the overall total is broken down into, theft of passenger property (including handling) shows the largest figures.

The Guardian

"Gilgul" also stems from Yerushalmi's fascination with Freud and Kafka, who are, Harold Bloom writes in the foreword to "Zakhor," the "largest figures in modern Jewish culture" and the "hidden presences" in the book.

The New Yorker

The strongly projecting buttresses have tiers of niches which contain many of the largest figures.

Wikipedia

Ms. Silverman and her producers would obviously prefer the larger figure.

The New York Times - Arts

It is not clear whether that 330 is included in the larger figure.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing data sets, clearly identify the context to indicate why the "largest figure" is significant (e.g., the "largest figure" represents the highest sales quarter).

Common error

Avoid assuming the "largest figure" is always the most important. Consider the scale and context; a smaller percentage increase might be more significant than a large absolute number.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the largest figure" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It typically refers to the greatest numerical value, quantity, or a prominent person within a specific context. Ludwig AI validates this usage, providing numerous examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the largest figure" is a versatile phrase used to denote the greatest numerical value, quantity, or a prominent person within a specific context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and frequently encountered across varied domains like news, science and encyclopedias. To enhance clarity, clearly state the context and reasons that the "largest figure" is significant. While "the largest figure" is generally appropriate, consider replacing it with more precise synonyms such as "the peak value" or "the leading figure" based on the specific situation. It is important to avoid assuming the "largest figure" is always the most important.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the greatest number

Replaces "figure" with "number", emphasizing a numerical value.

the highest value

Substitutes "figure" with "value", highlighting a quantitative assessment.

the maximum amount

Emphasizes the uppermost quantity or size.

the maximum amount

Emphasizes the uppermost quantity or size.

the peak value

Similar to highest value, but emphasizing a time series.

the most significant statistic

Replaces "figure" with "statistic", suitable when referring to data.

the primary statistic

Emphasizing the main or key data point.

the predominant amount

Replacing largest to predominant, implies being more frequent.

the leading quantity

Replace 'largest' with leading to indicate significance or dominance.

the supreme quantity

Highlights the utmost or highest quantity.

FAQs

How can I use "the largest figure" in a sentence?

Use "the largest figure" when referring to the greatest numerical value, amount, or a most prominent person within a specific context. For example, "The report indicated that the "largest figure" in revenue came from overseas sales".

What's the difference between "the largest figure" and "the largest number"?

"The largest figure" is a broader term that can refer to a numerical value, a data point, or even a prominent person, while "the largest number" specifically refers to the greatest numerical value.

Is there a more formal alternative to "the largest figure"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "the peak value", "the maximum amount", or "the most significant statistic" for increased precision and formality.

What can I say instead of "the largest figure" when referring to a person?

If you are referring to a person, alternatives include phrases like "the most influential person", "the most prominent individual", or "the leading figure" depending on the context.