Specific instances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Specific instances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to particular examples or occurrences that illustrate a broader point or concept. Example: "To better understand the theory, we need to examine specific instances where it has been applied successfully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Specific instances of his bizarre behavior have been well established.

The New York Times

Specific instances in movies became more and more ingrained in everyday conversation and didn't go away.

Huffington Post

We were talking about very specific instances".

The Guardian - Film

Any specific instances you can recall?

The Guardian - Tech

It did not discuss specific instances.

The New York Times

These could prove more of a lure in specific instances.

The Guardian

It adds that Tantaros couldn't recall specific instances of harassment.

The Washington Post

I was able to use specific instances as examples.

The New York Times

Hate speech may still need to be banned in specific instances, I would argue.

The Guardian - Opinion

But when pressed on specific instances of those failings her good humor would drop away.

The New Yorker

But its report did identify specific instances in which the bank had contributed to the suffering.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "specific instances", ensure they directly and clearly support the general point you are making. Avoid including instances that are tangentially related or open to interpretation.

Common error

Avoid making broad claims without providing "specific instances" to back them up. Doing so weakens your argument and makes it less credible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specific instances" functions as a noun phrase often used as a direct object or object of a preposition. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is a way to discuss particular and clear examples or happenings, commonly used to add weight to a broader point.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "specific instances" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase. Ludwig AI underlines its purpose: to provide tangible evidence and support general claims. The phrase sees high usage in News & Media and Science, displaying a neutral register suitable across diverse professional contexts. To enhance your writing, use "specific instances" to underscore credibility, and prevent overgeneralizations by citing concrete support. Alternatives include "concrete examples" or "particular cases".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Particular cases

Focuses on the distinct and individual nature of the examples.

Concrete examples

Emphasizes the tangible and real-world nature of the instances.

Detailed accounts

Highlights the level of depth and information provided.

Illustrative examples

Stresses the role of the instances in clarifying or demonstrating a point.

Precise occurrences

Draws attention to the accuracy and exactness of the events.

Defined situations

Highlights that the instances are clearly outlined and understood.

Certain incidents

Focuses on events that have happened with a degree of certainty.

Individual situations

Emphasizes that the instances are considered separately.

Certain situations

Highlights the specific and definite nature of the situations.

Identifiable examples

The cases are able to be recognized or distinguished.

FAQs

How can I use "specific instances" in a sentence?

You can use "specific instances" to provide supporting evidence or examples for a general statement. For example, "The report provided "specific instances" of fraud within the company".

What are some alternatives to using "specific instances"?

Alternatives include phrases like "concrete examples", "particular cases", or "illustrative examples", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "specific instances" or "general examples"?

"Specific instances" are usually more effective because they provide concrete and detailed support, whereas "general examples" might be too vague. The choice depends on the level of detail required.

What's the difference between "specific instances" and "anecdotal evidence"?

"Specific instances" typically refer to verifiable examples used to support a claim, while "anecdotal evidence" often involves personal stories or experiences that may not be representative or rigorously verified.