Figure vs. Shape — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on February 26, 2024
A figure refers to any distinct form or shape, often used in mathematics and art, while a shape is a specific outline or contour that defines an object or space.
Difference Between Figure and Shape
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Figures encompass a wide range of forms, including two-dimensional shapes like squares and circles, as well as three-dimensional forms like cubes and spheres. They are used in various contexts, from geometry to art, to represent both abstract and concrete entities. Shapes, by contrast, are specifically the outlines or contours that define the boundary of an object, focusing solely on the two-dimensional aspect.
All shapes can be considered figures, but not all figures are simply shapes, as figures can also represent more complex, three-dimensional objects. The term "figure" can also imply a representation or illustration of something, used in broader contexts beyond just geometry or physical objects. Shapes are foundational elements in the creation of figures, serving as the basic outlines from which more complex figures can be developed.
In mathematics, particularly in geometry, the distinction is crucial; figures are used to discuss properties and theories that apply to both two-dimensional and three-dimensional forms. Shapes are more specifically employed to discuss two-dimensional geometry, such as the properties of circles or triangles.
The concept of a shape is often used in early education to teach children about geometry and spatial relationships, focusing on simple two-dimensional examples. Figures, however, are introduced as students' understanding of mathematics and art becomes more sophisticated, encompassing a broader range of forms and concepts.
Understanding the difference between figures and shapes is fundamental in fields such as geometry, art, and design, where both terms are used to discuss and analyze the physical world and abstract representations.
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Comparison Chart
Dimensionality
Includes both 2D and 3D forms.
Primarily focused on 2D outlines.
Context
Used in mathematics, art, and representation.
Used to describe the boundary or outline of objects.
Complexity
Can represent complex forms and illustrations.
Refers to simple outlines or contours.
Examples
Squares, circles, cubes, spheres.
Circle, square, triangle, hexagon.
Usage
Broader usage in various fields.
Specific to outlines and contours of objects.
Compare with Definitions
Figure
Any distinct spatial form, including both 2D and 3D shapes.
A cube is a figure in three-dimensional space.
Shape
The outline or external boundary of an object.
The shape of the leaf was a perfect oval.
Figure
Used in mathematics to discuss properties of shapes and forms.
Geometric figures such as triangles and rectangles are fundamental in geometry.
Shape
Defines objects in terms of their two-dimensional aspects.
The artist used various shapes to create a balanced composition.
Figure
Encompasses a broad category of visual entities.
Figures in a graph represent different data points.
Shape
Used to teach basic geometry and spatial understanding.
Children learn about shapes like squares and circles in school.
Figure
Represents both abstract and concrete entities.
In chess, each piece is considered a distinct figure with its own rules.
Shape
Specific to the contour or outline that defines an object.
The distinctive shape of a heart is recognized universally.
Figure
Can refer to illustrations or representations in art and diagrams.
The figure in the painting abstractly represents a human.
Shape
Fundamental to the study of geometry.
Understanding the properties of shapes is crucial in geometry.
Figure
A written or printed symbol representing something other than a letter, especially a number.
Shape
A shape or figure is the form of an object or its external boundary, outline, or external surface, as opposed to other properties such as color, texture, or material type. A plane shape, two-dimensional shape, or 2D shape (plane figure, two-dimensional figure, or 2D figure) is constrained to lie on a plane, in contrast to solid figures.
Figure
An indistinct object or shape
The figures in the mist turned out to be lampposts.
Shape
The characteristic surface configuration of a thing; an outline or contour
A lake in the shape of an hourglass.
Figure
A design or pattern, as in a textile
Silk with a paisley figure.
Shape
Something, such as a mold or pattern, used to give or determine form.
Figure
A person, thing, or action, conceived of as analogous to another person, thing, or action, of which it thus becomes a type or representative.
Who is the figure of Him that was to come.
Shape
To give a particular form to (a material)
Shape the dough into baguettes.
Figure
A mode of expressing abstract or immaterial ideas by words which suggest pictures or images from the physical world; pictorial language; a trope; hence, any deviation from the plainest form of statement. Also called a figure of speech.
To represent the imagination under the figure of a wing.
Shape
The status or condition of something
The used bookshop wouldn’t offer much due to the poor shape of the book.
Figure
To represent by a figure, as to form or mold; to make an image of, either palpable or ideal; also, to fashion into a determinate form; to shape.
If love, alas! be pain I bear,
No thought can figure, and no tongue declare.Prior.
Shape
A mould for making blancmange, jelly, etc., or a piece of such food formed moulded into a particular shape.
Figure
To make a figure; to be distinguished or conspicious; as, the envoy figured at court.
Sociable, hospitable, eloquent, admired, figuring away brilliantly.
Shape
To form or manipulate something into a certain shape.
Figure
A decorative or artistic work;
The coach had a design on the doors
Shape
To form or create; especially, to mold or make into a particular form; to give proper form or figure to.
I was shapen in iniquity.
Grace shaped her limbs, and beauty decked her face.
Figure
Make a mathematical calculation or computation
Shape
A model; a pattern; a mold.
Shape
The spatial arrangement of something as distinct from its substance;
Geometry is the mathematical science of shape
Shape
Shape or influence; give direction to;
Experience often determines ability
Mold public opinion
Shape
Give a shape or form to;
Shape the dough
Common Curiosities
Why is understanding shapes important in mathematics?
Understanding shapes is foundational for exploring geometry, spatial reasoning, and mathematical properties.
Can figures be abstract?
Yes, figures can represent abstract concepts or entities, not just physical objects.
How are shapes used in design?
Shapes are used in design to create visual harmony, convey messages, and define spaces within compositions.
Are all shapes figures?
Yes, all shapes are considered figures, specifically as two-dimensional figures.
What is a geometric figure?
A geometric figure is any set of points on a plane or in space, including shapes, lines, and three-dimensional forms.
How is the concept of shape different in physics?
In physics, the concept of shape can include the arrangement of particles or fields in space, often relating to the structure of matter.
What distinguishes a shape from a pattern?
A shape is a single outline or contour, while a pattern is a repeating design made of multiple shapes or elements.
Can shapes change?
Shapes can change in appearance through perspective, distortion, or when represented in different dimensions.
Can a figure be without shape?
In a broad sense, figures always have some form of shape or structure, but in abstract or theoretical contexts, they might represent concepts without a traditional "shape."
Do shapes have dimensions?
Shapes are primarily two-dimensional, having length and width, but not depth.
How do figures relate to three-dimensional space?
Figures in three-dimensional space include objects with depth, volume, and surface area, such as cubes, spheres, and pyramids.
What role do shapes play in art?
Shapes are fundamental elements in art, used to create compositions, imply movement, and evoke emotions.
How are figures used in statistics?
In statistics, figures can refer to graphical representations of data, such as charts and plots.
Is a shadow considered a shape?
A shadow can be considered a shape as it outlines the contour of an object's shadow on a surface.
What is the importance of shapes in everyday life?
Shapes are essential for recognizing and organizing visual information, from navigating environments to understanding symbols and signs.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
