The word “figures” can refer to numbers, shapes, or characters, depending on how it’s used.
Let’s look at the main types of “figures” people usually talk about:
1. 🎨 Figures in Art
In art, a figure usually refers to a representation of a person, animal, or shape.
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Example: A “figure drawing” shows the human body.
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Example: A figurine or action figure (like a Mario or Iron Man toy) is a small 3D model of a character.
🛒 You can explore collectible figures here:
2. 🔢 Figures in Mathematics
In math, figures mean numbers or geometric shapes.
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Numerical figures: like 1, 2, 3, or “five-figure income.”
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Geometric figures: like circles, triangles, and squares.
Example:
“A triangle is a geometric figure with three sides.”
3. 🧍 Figures as People (Famous or Symbolic)
“Figures” can also mean important or recognizable people.
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Example: “Albert Einstein is a historical figure.”
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Example: “Mario is a famous figure in video game history.”
4. 🕹️ Figures in Gaming
In gaming, “figures” often means character models, toys, or digital avatars.
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Example: “Amiibo figures” from Nintendo interact with games like Super Smash Bros. or Animal Crossing.
5. 💬 Figures of Speech
In language, “figures” can also mean figurative expressions—ways of speaking that aren’t literal.
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Example: “Break the ice” is a figure of speech, meaning to start a conversation.
✅ In Short:
| Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Art | Sculpture or image of a person | Action figure |
| Math | Number or shape | Triangle, 7 |
| History | Important person | Napoleon |
| Gaming | Character model | Amiibo |
| Language | Figurative phrase | “Time is money” |