In several instances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In several instances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to multiple occurrences or examples of something happening. Example: "In several instances, the team has demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills during critical projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In several instances, health professionals were complicit.

The New York Times

In several instances, Ms. Lee calls for prepared mashed potatoes.

The New York Times - Food

In several instances, Page-Turner decided to enter the fray.

The New Yorker

In several instances, Condé's security forces fired on protesters.

The New Yorker

In several instances, simplicity marketing is implicit rather than explicit.

The New York Times

In several instances there are two vellum versions of the same composition.

The New York Times - Arts

In several instances the estate agents recommend law firms to help a buyer hide his identity.

The Guardian

In several instances, Mr. Connors and his reporters decide to play down stories with tabloid potential.

The New York Times - Arts

In several instances, the statute of limitations had expired, the police said.

The New York Times

In several instances, armed drones killed children who were on rooftops.

The New Yorker

In several instances, however, the delicate narrative balance slips from Mr. Englander's grasp.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "In several instances" to introduce multiple examples or occurrences that support a claim or provide evidence. This phrase is suitable for formal and informal writing.

Common error

While "In several instances" is a useful phrase, avoid overusing it within a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "in many cases", "on several occasions", or "frequently" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In several instances" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the frequency or occurrence of an action or event. Ludwig shows it is used to introduce examples or provide evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

7%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "In several instances" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce multiple examples or occurrences of a particular event or situation. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. While it is suitable for both formal and informal communication, writers should be mindful of overuse and consider employing synonyms like "in numerous cases" or "on several occasions" for stylistic variation. Its function is to provide evidence and support claims, enhancing the credibility of the writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In numerous cases

Replaces "several" with "numerous", indicating a large number of occurrences.

In many situations

Substitutes "instances" with "situations", focusing on specific circumstances.

In multiple examples

Uses "multiple" instead of "several" and "examples" instead of "instances", highlighting specific instances used as illustrations.

On several occasions

Replaces "instances" with "occasions", emphasizing specific times or events.

In various circumstances

Employs "various" instead of "several" and "circumstances" instead of "instances", indicating diverse situations.

In a number of situations

Uses "a number of" to quantify the occurrences, providing a slightly more formal tone.

In some cases

Offers a less specific quantity than "several", implying that the occurrences are not as frequent.

At times

Simplifies the phrase to a more general expression of occasional occurrences.

From time to time

Indicates that the events happen periodically, but not necessarily frequently.

Occasionally

Reduces the phrase to a single adverb, expressing infrequent occurrences.

FAQs

How can I use "In several instances" in a sentence?

You can use "In several instances" to introduce examples or situations that support a statement. For example, "In several instances, the company has exceeded its sales targets."

What are some alternatives to "In several instances"?

Some alternatives to "In several instances" include "in numerous cases", "in many situations", and "on several occasions". These phrases can add variety to your writing.

Is "In several instances" formal or informal?

"In several instances" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. It is a clear and professional way to indicate that something has occurred multiple times.

How does "In several instances" differ from "In most instances"?

"In several instances" indicates that something has occurred multiple times, but not necessarily the majority of the time. "In most instances" suggests that something is generally true or happens more often than not.