In this instance

USAGE SUMMARY

"in this instance" is a grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
You can use it when you're referring to a specific situation or example. For example: In this instance, we need to be extra careful when handling this delicate material.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

In this instance, size does matter.

Independent

In this instance, it was never love.

Independent

In this instance, he was less forthcoming.

The New York Times - Sports

In this instance, the acquirers are American.

The Economist

In this instance, however, this is irrelevant.

The Economist

In this instance, diplomacy won out.

The New York Times

In this instance, they didn't.

The New Yorker

In this instance, Greenwich Hospital.

The New York Times

In this instance, there is no collar.

The New York Times

In this instance, gang means "going".

The New York Times

In this instance, it is misplaced.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in this instance" to clearly signal that you are focusing on a single, specific example to illustrate a broader point. This helps avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "in this instance" is useful, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "in this case" or "for example".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in this instance" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause by specifying the scope or context to which it applies. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and serves to highlight a particular example or situation. This usage aligns with the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in this instance" is a versatile phrase used to pinpoint a specific example or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it serves to clarify and focus discussions. For stylistic variety, consider alternatives such as "in this case" or "for example". Remember to use this phrase to enhance clarity, but avoid overuse to maintain engaging prose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In this particular case

Adds emphasis to the specificity of the situation.

In this specific situation

Highlights the contextual nature of the example.

Given this situation

Highlights that the example is already established or known.

For this example

Directly introduces an illustrative instance.

In this scenario

Emphasizes a hypothetical or projected situation.

Under these circumstances

Focuses on the surrounding conditions affecting the instance.

As it applies here

Connects a general rule or principle to the current specific case.

Here

A shorter and more direct way to refer to the current case.

For the purposes of this example

More formal, explicitly stating the illustrative intent.

Specifically

Direct and concise way to introduce a concrete detail relevant to the current situation.

FAQs

How can I use "in this instance" in a sentence?

Use "in this instance" to specify that what you're saying applies to a particular example or situation. For example, "The rule usually applies, but "in this instance", there's an exception".

What phrases are similar to "in this instance"?

Alternatives to "in this instance" include "in this case", "for example", or "specifically". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to start a sentence with "in this instance"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "in this instance". It serves as a transitional phrase, guiding the reader to a specific example or situation.

When is it better to use "in this case" versus "in this instance"?

"In this case" and "in this instance" are often interchangeable. However, "in this instance" can sometimes imply a more detailed or unique situation than "in this case".