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Graphic Design vocabulary · Design Principles

Figure-ground

Meaning in graphic design, with examples

nounAdvanced term

In graphic design, figure-ground means: The perceptual distinction between a focal shape and its surrounding background.

In Turkish: şekil-zemin ilişkisi

How it is used

Use when shapes and spaces compete to be seen as the main figure.

Example sentences

  1. The poster's figure-ground relationship flips between a vase and two faces.

    The same boundary can support two competing perceptual interpretations.

  2. Stronger figure-ground separation made the symbol easier to identify.

    A clearer foreground-background distinction improves shape recognition.

Common collocations

  • figure-ground relationship
  • figure-ground reversal
  • white spaceThe empty areas around and between elements in a design. It does not have to be white; it is any space left free so the design can breathe and the content is easier to read.
  • compositionThe overall arrangement of shapes, images, text and space in a design or picture, and how they work together to lead the eye and create a feeling.

More terms: Design Principles

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