figure
Meaning: A number or numerical symbol; a person's body shape; to calculate or understand
'Figure' has multiple meanings: a numerical value ('sales figures'), a person's body shape ('a slim figure'), or a diagram in a document. As a verb, 'figure out' means to understand or solve something. 'Figure' can also mean an important person ('a public figure').
Examples
- The unemployment figures were released yesterday. 失业数据昨天公布了。Las cifras de desempleo se publicaron ayer.失業率の数字が昨日発表されました。실업률 수치가 어제 발표되었습니다.
- I can't figure out how to use this new software. 我弄不清楚怎么使用这个新软件。No puedo entender cómo usar este nuevo software.この新しいソフトウェアの使い方がわかりません。이 새 소프트웨어 사용법을 모르겠어요.
- She's an important figure in British politics. 她是英国政界的重要人物。Es una figura importante en la política británica.彼女はイギリス政治の重要人物です。그녀는 영국 정치의 중요 인물입니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin 'figura' meaning 'shape, form, appearance', from 'fingere' (to shape, to mould). The same root gives us 'fiction' (something shaped or invented), 'feign', and 'dough' (something moulded). The numerical sense developed from the shapes of written digits.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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