sample 1 of 2

1
as in sampling
a number of things selected from a group to stand for the whole based on a sample of the menu items, we decided that this was the best restaurant in town

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in example
one of a group or collection that shows what the whole is like this vase is a sample of the high-quality glassware that the glassblowers can produce

Synonyms & Similar Words

sample

2 of 2

verb

as in to test
to put (something) to a test sampled the soup to see if it tasted good

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sample distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of sample are case, example, illustration, instance, and specimen. While all these words mean "something that exhibits distinguishing characteristics in its category," 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 is case a more appropriate choice than sample?

While in some cases nearly identical to sample, 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 can example be used instead of sample?

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

a typical example of bureaucratic waste

When could illustration be used to replace sample?

Although the words illustration and sample have much in common, illustration applies to an instance offered as a means of clarifying or illuminating a general statement.

a telling illustration of Murphy's Law

When might instance be a better fit than sample?

In some situations, the words instance and sample 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

In what contexts can specimen take the place of sample?

The synonyms specimen and sample are sometimes interchangeable, 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 sample
Noun
For example, the household survey that includes the monthly unemployment rate and demographic data is considered rather volatile because of its smaller sample size and declining response rates. David Goldman, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2025 Of the library’s sample of domestic passengers arriving in Sacramento, 20% came from LAX, the Hollywood Burbank Airport, the Long Beach Airport or San Diego International. Ariane Lange, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2025
Verb
In the six-part series, Shalhoub travels the globe sampling a variety of international cuisines and cultures, with bread connecting them all. Dave Nemetz, TVLine, 5 Sep. 2025 One where the entire community would gather to stare blankly at price tags, sit on bulky massage chairs, and sample glossy pieces of teriyaki chicken in a grand dining hall. Annabelle Canela, Parents, 4 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sample
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sample
Noun
  • By connecting these functions early, brands cut time-to-market, eliminate costly sampling cycles and align design decisions with both market demand and sustainability goals.
    SJ Studio, Sourcing Journal, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Scientists with the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program and Suncoast Waterkeeper recently began the advanced sampling to pinpoint percentages of fecal indicator bacteria sources around the Palma Sola Causeway.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The ad includes clips from news broadcasts covering, for example, Trump’s framework for a trade deal with the European Union.
    Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2025
  • The low, powerful finish from the edge of the box to beat Italy in the Under-21 Euros this summer was another example of his high ceiling in the final third.
    Patrick Boyland, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • All of the cats who tested this litter adjusted to it quickly and easily — some even had a little play date in their box, kicking and scratching, which is a good sign!
    Kayla Blanton, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
  • In the first inning as the Blue Jays wore down the Yankees by putting balls in play and fouling off pitches, Judge was tested for the first time on a single by Nathan Lukes.
    Larry Fleisher, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The automobile, mortar-and-pestle sign and other artifacts and specimens are considered collection items, which the museum will continue to care for.
    Jim Higgins, jsonline.com, 30 Aug. 2025
  • The lab should be locked down with guards everywhere and the specimens in secure containers.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sample.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sample. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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