For example

USAGE SUMMARY

"For example" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to provide an example after a statement. For example, apples are a type of fruit.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For example?

Forbes

For example, McAllen, Tex.

The New York Times

For example: "Unhappy".

Independent

For example, "copyright infringement".

Forbes

"For example, buildings.

BBC

For example, pumpkin.

Los Angeles Times

"For example: beans.

Unicef

For example: [Media/Audio].

WikiHow

For example: "Charming".

WikiHow

For example, Baby girl.

WikiHow

For example; Donkey Kong.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "For example" to introduce specific instances that clarify or support a general statement. Avoid using it to introduce completely new topics.

Common error

Avoid starting every sentence with "For example". Vary your sentence structure by using other introductory phrases such as "For instance" or rephrasing the sentence to integrate the example more smoothly.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "For example" is to serve as an adverbial phrase, modifying the sentence or clause by introducing a specific illustration or instance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a correct phrase and functions to introduce an example.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

34%

News & Media

31%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "For example" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce illustrative instances, offering clarity and support to general statements. As Ludwig AI points out, it is a grammatically correct phrase suitable for diverse contexts, with the bulk of its usage found in Wiki and News & Media sources. While highly common, it's best practice to avoid overuse and vary sentence structure. Alternatives such as ""For instance"" and "Such as" can provide a fresh approach to exemplification. Understanding the purpose and register ensures effective communication, making "For example" a valuable tool in both writing and speaking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

For instance

This alternative provides a direct synonym, simply replacing "example" with "instance".

A case in point

This phrase highlights a specific example that supports a broader argument or statement.

By way of example

This slightly more formal alternative explicitly states that something is being provided as an example.

Take the case of

This alternative specifically directs attention to a particular instance or situation.

To cite an instance

This expression indicates you're presenting a specific occurrence as evidence or support.

To illustrate

This phrase shifts from providing an example to showing or clarifying a point through illustration.

Such as

This is a shorter and more concise way to introduce examples.

As an illustration

This option presents an illustration, emphasizing the act of clarifying or demonstrating something.

Consider

This option invites the reader to think about the following case as an example.

Like

This is a simpler, less formal way to give an example.

FAQs

How can I use "For example" in a sentence?

Use "For example" to introduce a specific case that illustrates a general point. "For instance", you might say, "Many fruits are rich in vitamins; for example, oranges are high in vitamin C".

What are some alternatives to "For example"?

You can use phrases such as ""For instance"", "Such as", "To illustrate", or "A case in point" depending on the level of formality and the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "For example"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "For example", especially when introducing an example that supports the previous statement. Just ensure a comma follows the phrase.

What's the difference between "For example" and ""For instance""?

"For example" and ""For instance"" are often interchangeable and have virtually the same meaning. "For instance" is perhaps slightly more formal, but the difference is minimal.