Definition

Adjective 1. Consisting of three digits: Describing a number that is written using exactly three numerals (digits from 0 to 9). These numbers range from 100 to 999.

Usage

The adjective three-figure is used directly before a noun to describe that noun as having a value, cost, or quantity represented by a three-digit number. * It is commonly used with words like number, salary, price, sum, amount, temperature, or speed. * It is typically hyphenated.

Examples

• The company reported a three-figure profit increase this quarter.
• She finally managed to get a three-figure score on the bowling lane.
• Temperatures are expected to reach three-figure levels this weekend.
• The antique was sold for a three-figure sum at the auction.

Advanced Usage

• "to run into three figures": This phrase means that a number, cost, or total has reached or exceeded 100.
  • The final cost of repairs ran into three figures.
• "low/high three figures": Used to give a more specific range within 100-999.
  • The damage was estimated in the low three figures (e.g., $100-$300).
  • The crowd was in the high three figures (e.g., 700-999 people).

Variants and Related Words

• Two-figure (adj): Consisting of two digits (10 through 99).
  • A two-figure percentage increase.
• Four-figure (adj): Consisting of four digits (1,000 through 9,999).
  • A four-figure salary bonus.

Synonyms

• Triple-digit (adj): Having three digits.
  • A triple-digit growth rate.

Notes on Meaning

The term three-figure specifically refers to the written form of a number. Its core meaning is about the number of digits, not the magnitude itself, though it implies a magnitude between 100 and 999 inclusive. The number 100 is a three-figure number, while 99 is not.

Adjective

1. (of numbers) written with three figures
   • 100 through 999 are three-figure numbers