What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
figure
Example
The figure for last year's sales was impressive. [figure: noun]
Example
She has a great figure, thanks to her regular exercise routine. [figure: noun]
Example
The textbook had a helpful figure that illustrated the concept. [figure: noun]
shape
Example
The vase had an unusual shape that caught my eye. [shape: noun]
Example
She tried to shape the dough into a heart. [shape: verb]
Example
The committee worked to shape the new policy. [shape: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shape is more commonly used than figure in everyday language due to its versatility and wide range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between figure and shape?
Figure can have a more formal or technical connotation, while shape is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
