Figures vs Graphs

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Figures

Top 1,000 (very common)

Graphs

Top 2,000 (common)

Most common: Figures

	Figures	Graphs
Pronunciation	🇬🇧 //ˈfɪɡəz// 🇺🇸 //ˈfɪɡjɚz//	🇬🇧 //ɡrɑːfs// 🇺🇸 //ɡræfs//
Meaning	Numbers or shapes used to represent something.	A visual way to show data using lines or bars.
Example	The figures in the report show a significant increase in sales.	The teacher explained the data using several graphs.
Register	Neutral	Neutral
How common	Top 1,000 (very common)	Top 2,000 (common)
Collocations	financial figures, statistical figures, artistic figures, geometric figures, important figures	bar graphs, line graphs, pie graphs, data graphs, statistical graphs
Antonyms	facts, reality	-
Common mistakes	Confused with 'figures' as in 'people' vs. numerical 'figures'., Using 'figure' incorrectly when referencing plural contexts., Mixing up 'figures' in mathematical and artistic contexts.	Confusing 'graphs' with 'charts' - they have different formats., Using 'graph' when referring to multiple graphs instead of 'graphs'.
Usage notes	Use 'figures' in both formal and informal contexts when discussing numbers or physical shapes. In statistical or academic discussions, it's common. Avoid using in overly casual settings.	Use 'graphs' in academic or professional contexts to display information. Avoid using casual language when discussing formal graphs.

See it in real clips

Well, the figures

Agatha Christies Poirot › S1 E1

Yes, yes, he does very well with figures.

But we've got to figure something out or the people on Earth are gonna die. Think!

Well, the figures

Agatha Christies Poirot › S1 E1

Yes, yes, he does very well with figures.

Figures

Succession › S1 E1

Where's the growth? All our graphs go down. All of them.

Graphs

Frequently asked questions: Figures vs Graphs

What's the difference between Figures and Graphs?

Figures: Numbers or shapes used to represent something. Graphs: A visual way to show data using lines or bars.

Which is more common: Figures and Graphs?

Figures is the most common in everyday English.

Can you show an example of each?

Figures: The figures in the report show a significant increase in sales. Graphs: The teacher explained the data using several graphs.

Can I use Figures and Graphs interchangeably?

Not always. Figures and Graphs are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.