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 Cactus wrens, for example, may build several pouch nests, but only one is used for laying eggs. Ernie Cowan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 May 2025 For example, Hass avocados, which are the most common type available in the U.S., are medium sized. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 May 2025 At night, for example, when the house is silent and your work is done. Ann Goldstein, New Yorker, 25 May 2025 For example, creating more enemies for a relaxed player, or fewer for a stressed player. Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for example
Recent Examples of Synonyms for example
Noun
  • There was not a single instance of service disruption.
    Jim Osman, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025
  • Despite Halle giving the court several instances of violence and providing post-assault photos, her victimhood is being denied by many.
    Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 17 May 2025
Noun
  • The sample menu starts at 250 pounds a person with a taste of an oyster vichyssoise that uses imperial gold caviar, buttermilk and dill; scallops from the Isle of Skye with pumpkin, nori, and pine créme, and a Cornish turbot made with morteau sausage, thyme, black garlic and yellow wine.
    Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 24 May 2025
  • Soil samples suggest the stones were placed there around 400 years ago, which aligns with the timing of Rutherford’s letter.
    Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 May 2025
Noun
  • Perhaps there’s no better illustration of Faena’s success in cultivating regenerative relationships than artist-patron Lyra Drake.
    Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025
  • Emblazoned with colorful graphics, the illustrations include, beach balls, popsicles, suns, bikinis, barbecue grills, and aptly fruits.
    Charlie Carballo, Footwear News, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • These European footprints are not as old as the ones from Australia, but are still older than previous specimens.
    Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 14 May 2025
  • The architecture of the retina remained completely intact across multiple specimens.
    Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
Noun
  • This is signaling the risen value of architecting wisely, rather than For example, the creation of a vehicle platform is $6-10B and many automakers haven’t yet realized a flexible, extensible, software-enabling platform, the business case quickly aligns with this sentiment.
    Steve Tengler, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
  • But his lawyers, pointing to apparent inconsistencies in Sokola’s account, believe the new case is far from open-shut.
    Phoebe Eaton, HollywoodReporter, 14 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Example.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/example. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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