figure
A number written on paper or shown in print.
A symbol or group of symbols representing a number, especially as written or printed.
The shape of a person's body.
The shape or outline of a human body, especially when considered attractive.
To think something is true after looking at the facts.
To decide, guess, or form an opinion about something based on available information.
To find the answer to something by thinking.
To understand or work out something by thinking about it carefully.
A person shown in art or in your mind.
A human form represented in drawing, painting, sculpture, literature, or imagination.
- Base: figure
- Plural: figures
- Base: figure
- 3rd Person Singular: figures
- Present Participle: figuring
- Past: figured
figure of speech
1Non-literal expression for effect
A way of saying something where the words do not have their usual meaning, used to make it more interesting or strong.
- ‘I'm so hungry I could eat a horse’ is just a figure of speech.
- She used a figure of speech to make her point clear.
figure out
1Find an answer by thinking carefully
To understand something or find the answer by thinking about it.
- I can't figure out how to use this app.
- She figured out the puzzle after an hour.
figure out
8understand or solve
To think until you understand the answer or solution.
- Can you figure out why the printer isn't connecting?
- We need to figure out how to pay for the repairs.
- He finally figured out the answer.
- I can't figure it out.
- She figured out how to use the app.
go figure
1Express surprise at something odd or unexpected
Used to say you are surprised about something strange or hard to understand.
- He doesn't like pizza but loves anchovies—go figure.
- She studied all night and still failed—go figure.
public figure
1A well-known person in public life
A person who many people know about, often because of their job.
- The actor is a public figure who supports many charities.
- As a public figure, she must be careful what she says.