noun
example
ig-ZAM-puhl/ɪɡˈzæmpl/
A particular case that illustrates a broader idea or method.
During the lesson, an orange serves as an example of a sphere.
Etymology
The pieces give the image of something “taken out”: a specimen selected from a larger group. Such a specimen can represent the group or make a general idea concrete.
In context
For example, putting ‘luxury economy’ in speech marks shows that there was nothing luxurious about the plane journey.
More examples
- Some fruits, for example lemons, taste sour.
- Her calm response provides an example of respectful disagreement.
- We solve another example to practice the new method.
Forms
example · examples
exemplify verb — To illustrate with a particular case.
Similar words
- instance
- Names a particular occurrence without necessarily explaining a broader idea.
- illustration
- Emphasizes explaining an idea clearly, often through a detailed case.