as in instance
one of a group or collection that shows what the whole is like a war bonnet that is a fine example of Native American handicraft

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word example distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of example are case, illustration, instance, sample, and specimen. While all these words mean "something that exhibits distinguishing characteristics in its category," example applies to a typical, representative, or illustrative instance or case.

a typical example of bureaucratic waste

When could case be used to replace example?

While in some cases nearly identical to example, case is used to direct attention to a real or assumed occurrence or situation that is to be considered, studied, or dealt with.

a case of mistaken identity

When would illustration be a good substitute for example?

The meanings of illustration and example largely overlap; however, illustration applies to an instance offered as a means of clarifying or illuminating a general statement.

a telling illustration of Murphy's Law

Where would instance be a reasonable alternative to example?

In some situations, the words instance and example are roughly equivalent. However, instance applies to any individual person, act, or thing that may be offered to illustrate or explain.

an instance of history repeating itself

When is sample a more appropriate choice than example?

Although the words sample and example have much in common, sample implies a part or unit taken at random from a larger whole and so presumed to be typical of its qualities.

show us a sample of your work

When might specimen be a better fit than example?

The words specimen and example can be used in similar contexts, but specimen applies to any example or sample whether representative or merely existent and available.

one of the finest specimens of the jeweler's art

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of example In Southern California, for example, the 50501 spokesman says food drives are planned to support people who continue to struggle in the wake of the January wildfires as well as those who may be affected by the rising price of goods amid President Trump's tariffs. Emma Bowman, NPR, 19 Apr. 2025 Republican leaders’ adoption of talking points on Ukraine that repeat Russian disinformation is just one example of how abandoning values abroad threatens democracy at home. Mark Sandy, TIME, 14 Mar. 2025 For example, consider the difference in prices between the state with the most expensive gas prices in the nation, California, and the state the least expensive, Mississippi. Christopher Tremoglie, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 14 Mar. 2025 These examples from our common cultural heritage prove that the Left’s hold on the arts need not amount to a permanent victory. Peter Tonguette, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for example
Recent Examples of Synonyms for example
Noun
  • In one instance, authorities intercepted messages between Hardy and his alleged co-conspirator showing the pair plotting to steal a Mercedes-Benz SL550.
    Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Although most instances of sustainable development aren’t as easy to see as a regular software update, companies must build processes to ensure consistent improvement of their products.
    Chris Perry, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The blood sample is usually analyzed at a separate center, so results can take a few days to come back.
    Ruth Jessen Hickman, MD, Health, 17 Apr. 2025
  • The victim experienced a miscarriage approximately six months into the pregnancy, at which point detectives obtained a sample of the fetal tissue.
    Muri Assunção, New York Daily News, 17 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Photo illustration by Tsering Bista/NPR When journalist Conz Preti brought her three children to visit family in Argentina in 2022, her four-year-old son did something surprising.
    Julia Furlan, NPR, 5 Apr. 2025
  • After the illustrations were complete, Smith had a few Dreamers stand and introduce their super hero characters to the world.
    DeVonne Goode, Parents, 4 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The monument also includes the Thomas Condon Paleontology and Visitor Center, which contains thousands of fossil specimens and features a research laboratory that's open to the public.
    Jonathan Limehouse, USA Today, 20 Apr. 2025
  • The First to Know test offers a 15-minute diagnosis from one to three drops of blood that correctly identifies 99.5% of negative specimens and 93.4% of positive specimens.
    Carmen Rios, Flow Space, 18 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Another case involves Venezuelan immigrants seeking hearings to contest their gang membership.
    Bart Jansen, USA Today, 21 Apr. 2025
  • In some cases, the frost is severe enough to end the growing season and is then referred to as a 'killing frost'.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 20 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Example.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/example. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

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