as in metaphorical
expressing one thing in terms normally used for another
the figurative use of "allergy" to mean "a feeling of dislike"
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Recent Examples of figurative
The role of deep and purposeful human connection amid this literal and figurative perfect storm of circumstances has never been more crucial.
—
Paul David, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
The album thematically focuses on the idea of the afterlife in both a literal and figurative sense, with a touch of Carlile's anecdotal songwriting and requiems for artists' past.
—Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 5 Apr. 2025
These installations highlight how Kansas City evolved from primarily historical statuary to a mix of conceptual and figurative public art.
—Courtney Lane, Kansas City Star, 15 Apr. 2025
As for the current exhibition, Hood hopes people will gain a deeper awareness of figurative art and enjoy experiencing the artwork through the free exhibitions and community workshops.
—Liz Rothaus Bertrand, Charlotte Observer, 19 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for figurative
Paul David, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025
The album thematically focuses on the idea of the afterlife in both a literal and figurative sense, with a touch of Carlile's anecdotal songwriting and requiems for artists' past.
—Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 5 Apr. 2025
These installations highlight how Kansas City evolved from primarily historical statuary to a mix of conceptual and figurative public art.
—Courtney Lane, Kansas City Star, 15 Apr. 2025
As for the current exhibition, Hood hopes people will gain a deeper awareness of figurative art and enjoy experiencing the artwork through the free exhibitions and community workshops.
—Liz Rothaus Bertrand, Charlotte Observer, 19 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for figurative
Recent Examples of Synonyms for figurative
Adjective
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The company dates back to the late 1930s and is known for its sweet candles in figural shapes such as Santas, snowmen, and carolers.—
Nicole Letts,
Southern Living,
26 Nov. 2024
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The company dates back to the late 1930s and is known for its sweet candles in figural shapes such as Santas, snowmen, and carolers.—
Nicole Letts,
Southern Living,
26 Nov. 2024
Adjective
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Honora also pointed to the symbolic nature of the pope's ancestry.—
Elizabeth Thomas,
ABC News,
9 May 2025
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More symbolic may be the dagger tattoo on his left forearm.—
Cam Inman,
Mercury News,
9 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Figurative.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/figurative. Accessed 23 May. 2025.
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