To give an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "To give an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to clarify a concept or idea by providing an example. For example, "To give an example of an ethical dilemma, consider the case of a CEO who is under pressure to meet quarterly performance goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To give an example, Daldry reels off the problems encountered in Chicago.

The Guardian

To give an example, 35,000 people recently backed Joe's petition, extremely critical of a BBC journalist.

The Guardian - Opinion

To give an example of one such slight, I must first evoke the memorable opening credit sequence of the "Garp" movie.

The New Yorker

To give an example, I have had experience with patients who develop cancer or other disabling diseases and then look upon themselves as "damaged goods".

The New York Times - Magazine

To give an example using Alanis Morissette's philosophical frustrations: "When you have 10,000 spoons and all you need is a knife.

The Guardian

To give an example, the automatic control of the ventilation flap of automobiles was investigated.

Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical

To give an example, suppose that the language we are considering is LAr+.

SEP

To give an example, Fig. 5 presents the network map of a central politician in Alheim.

European Journal of Futures Research

To give an example, Figure 6(A), which refers to scientists in the Nat./PNAS/Sci./PNAS/Sci

EPJ Data Science

To give an example, we use two logical operators as shown in Figure 12.

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

To give an example: Renewable energy technologies have various impacts on biodiversity.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "To give an example" to clearly signal that you are about to provide a specific instance to support your argument or explanation. This helps readers follow your reasoning more easily.

Common error

While "To give an example" is useful, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your introductory phrases with alternatives like "for instance" or "as an illustration" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "To give an example" functions as an introductory phrase, signaling the intention to provide a specific instance or case to clarify or support a statement. It is a discourse marker used to guide the reader or listener through the text. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "To give an example" is a grammatically correct and frequently used introductory phrase that signals the provision of a specific instance for clarification or support. Ludwig AI affirms its validity in written English. It is commonly found in science, news media, and formal business contexts, serving the purpose of exemplification with a neutral to formal tone. While highly useful, it's essential to avoid overuse and vary your language with alternatives like "for example" or "as an illustration". By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively enhance the clarity and persuasiveness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

For example

This is a shorter and more direct way to introduce an example, lacking the introductory verb phrase.

For instance

A synonym for 'for example', offering a slightly different tone.

As an illustration

This phrase uses 'illustration' instead of 'example', implying a more visual or descriptive instance.

To illustrate

This is a more concise version using the infinitive form of the verb.

By way of example

This alternative emphasizes the intention of providing an example.

As a case in point

This phrase highlights the relevance and aptness of the example.

Consider the following

This phrase directs the audience to contemplate a specific instance.

To demonstrate

Focuses on the act of showing or proving something through the example.

Let's say

This is a more informal way to introduce a hypothetical example.

Suppose

Similar to 'let's say', this introduces a hypothetical situation to exemplify a point.

FAQs

How can I use "To give an example" in a sentence?

Use "To give an example" at the beginning of a sentence or clause to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a point. For instance, "To give an example, consider the impact of social media on political campaigns".

What are some alternatives to "To give an example"?

You can use alternatives like "for example", "for instance", or "as an illustration" to introduce an example.

Is it grammatically correct to say "To giving an example"?

No, "To giving an example" is not grammatically correct. The correct phrase is "To give an example", using the infinitive form of the verb.

What's the difference between "To give an example" and "for example"?

"To give an example" is a longer, more formal phrase that explicitly states the intention to provide an example. "For example" is a shorter and more direct way to introduce an instance. The choice depends on the desired tone and context.