Forma vs. figura
In the Spanish language, the words forma and figura can both refer to the concept of shape or form. However, their usage is context-dependent and they are not always interchangeable.
Forma
A2Forma generally refers to the physical shape, arrangement, or configuration of an object without considering specific details.
Esta caja tiene la forma de un cubo.
(This box has the shape of a cube.)
La forma de la luna cambia durante el mes.
(The shape of the moon changes throughout the month.)
Necesito un molde en forma de corazón para mi pastel.
(I need a heart-shaped mold for my cake.)
Figura
A2Figura often refers to a more complex or detailed shape, which includes recognizable shapes found in art, geometry and common usage. It can also refer to actual figures or images.
La figura en el cuadro parece una mariposa.
(The figure in the painting looks like a butterfly.)
Los niños están aprendiendo sobre diferentes figuras geométricas.
(The children are learning about different geometric figures.)
Summary
While forma and figura in Spanish both refer to some could of form or shape, forma is typically used in a more general sense to refer to the basic shape or configuration of something. On the other hand, figura, can denote more complex or detailed shapes and is also used when referring to figures in art or literature.