instance 1 of 2

as in example
one of a group or collection that shows what the whole is like this is just one instance of his repeated failure to do what he promised

Synonyms & Similar Words

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instance

2 of 2

verb

1
as in to cite
to give as an example instanced one particular incident as an illustration of their penchant for practical jokes

Synonyms & Similar Words

2
3

Synonym Chooser

How is the word instance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of instance are case, example, illustration, sample, and specimen. While all these words mean "something that exhibits distinguishing characteristics in its category," instance applies to any individual person, act, or thing that may be offered to illustrate or explain.

an instance of history repeating itself

When could case be used to replace instance?

Although the words case and instance have much in common, 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 might example be a better fit than instance?

The meanings of example and instance largely overlap; however, example applies to a typical, representative, or illustrative instance or case.

a typical example of bureaucratic waste

When can illustration be used instead of instance?

In some situations, the words illustration and instance are roughly equivalent. However, illustration applies to an instance offered as a means of clarifying or illuminating a general statement.

a telling illustration of Murphy's Law

When is it sensible to use sample instead of instance?

The words sample and instance can be used in similar contexts, but 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

Where would specimen be a reasonable alternative to instance?

While the synonyms specimen and instance are close in meaning, 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 instance
Noun
In those instances, opt for a heatless curling set to sleep in. Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 25 July 2025 This will lead to instances of flash flooding into this afternoon. Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 2025
Verb
This sentence was changed on 30 November 2018 after some readers pointed out to the author instances in the literature that had considered these issues. IEEE Spectrum, 15 Nov. 2018 Topics under discussion included changes in the industry over the last decade, instanced by the rise of digital and gaming, audience fragmentation, and the emergence of disruptive technologies such as AI. Liza Foreman, Variety, 14 Oct. 2023 See All Example Sentences for instance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for instance
Noun
  • For example, the Bay View Neighborhood Association supports residents through advocacy and community improvements.
    Quinn Clark, jsonline.com, 25 July 2025
  • For example, fructose (fruit sugar) is converted to glucose in the liver, and so is galactose (a component of milk sugar).
    Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 25 July 2025
Verb
  • In a video posted by the UAW to social media, workers cited the fire as another motivator for unionization.
    Connor Giffin, The Courier-Journal, 25 July 2025
  • As Most Contentious Nearly a third of chief human resources officers (32%) also cited managing a hybrid workforce as a key topic of debate.
    Mallory Gafas, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
Verb
  • Though Bunnie didn’t specifically mention IVF in the video, she’s been open about how conceiving a baby with her country star husband has been one of her main focuses this year.
    Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 21 July 2025
  • The statement did not mention the recording policy, and McDermott has not responded to additional IndyStar questions.
    Cate Charron, IndyStar, 21 July 2025
Verb
  • Though Combs denied the allegation, the incident illustrates how some individuals may attempt to exert control over their current or former partners, even through intimidation or violence, to prevent them from forming new relationships.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
  • The artist continues to interrogate the interplay between image and text in culture today –– illustrating the persistent dominance of advertising, as well as the peculiarities of newer phenomena, such as memes.
    Megan Williams, CNN Money, 18 July 2025
Verb
  • Thomas’ suit, for example, referenced a PowerPoint from leadership that directed campuses to shred student attendance records.
    Chris Quintana, USA Today, 26 July 2025
  • That posting actually references a much older threat, one that was first flagged by the FBI public service announcement, alert number I-091223-PSA, way back in September 2023.
    Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 26 July 2025
Verb
  • Advertisement Macron has not specified what territory France would recognize as being part of a Palestinian state.
    Callum Sutherland, Time, 25 July 2025
  • The law doesn’t specify a grade level for instruction but calls for all students to be proficient.
    Ashley Fredde, Idaho Statesman, 24 July 2025
Verb
  • By demonstrating ambition, clarity and joined up thinking locally, Manchester has built something that national government is now backing.
    Kath Mackay, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
  • The new molecule can be injected into veins or muscles and has demonstrated its ability to cross the protective 'blood–brain barrier' and effectively reach receptors in brain cells.
    Health Reporter, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 July 2025
Verb
  • In Sunday’s victory against the Blue Jays, the Tigers noticed something off with Meadows both on the field and in the bases.
    Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 29 July 2025
  • Some people notice soft, fine hair regrowing on the affected areas initially, which thickens and darkens over time.
    Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 29 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Instance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/instance. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.

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