a classic example

USAGE SUMMARY

"a classic example" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to introduce or emphasize an example that is well-known and often referenced. For example: - "The Great Gatsby is often cited as a classic example of the American Dream." - "The company's stock plummeted, a classic example of poor financial management." - "Her speech was a classic example of political doublespeak." - "This is a classic example of why you should always read the instructions before using a new product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Here's a classic example.

The New York Times

Bob's a classic example.

Independent

Lighthouses are a classic example.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Cotton is a classic example.

The Economist

It's a classic example".

The New York Times

Energy bills are a classic example.

The New Yorker

The Proposal was a classic example.

Independent

"Apple iMessage is a classic example.

The New York Times

A classic example is the Danvers carrot.

The New York Times

Cigarette smoking is a classic example.

The New York Times

Facebook has been a classic example.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a classic example", ensure the example is genuinely well-known to your target audience to avoid confusion or misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "a classic example" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a prime example" or "a typical instance" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a classic example" functions as an appositive or introductory element to highlight a well-known and representative instance of a particular concept or phenomenon. As Ludwig AI explains, it is used to emphasize an example. Its presence in numerous examples confirms its role in making information more accessible and understandable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

17%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a classic example" is a widely recognized phrase used to introduce a well-known instance. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and its frequency is very common across varied sources, including news, academia, and formal business contexts. When writing, remember to employ this phrase to enhance clarity, but avoid overuse by considering alternatives like "a prime example" or "a textbook case". By understanding its function, purpose, and typical usage, you can effectively use "a classic example" to enhance your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prime example

Replaces 'classic' with 'prime', emphasizing the quality of being a leading or excellent instance.

a textbook case

Implies the example is so typical it's used in educational materials.

a typical instance

Focuses on the example's representativeness of a broader category.

a clear illustration

Highlights the example's ability to clarify or demonstrate a concept.

a notable case

Emphasizes the example's importance or prominence.

a representative sample

Suggests the example accurately reflects the characteristics of a larger group.

an exemplary model

Implies the example is worthy of imitation or serves as an ideal.

a standard bearer

Indicates the example sets a standard or serves as a leading example.

a case in point

Directly introduces the example as relevant to the current discussion.

an instance of this

A more direct, slightly less sophisticated way of introducing an example.

FAQs

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

You can use "a classic example" to introduce a well-known instance or illustration of a concept. For instance, "The rise and fall of the Roman Empire is "a classic example" of a civilization's lifecycle".

What are some alternatives to saying "a classic example"?

Instead of "a classic example", you could say "a prime example", "a textbook case", or "a typical instance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "a classic example" or "a classical example"?

"A classic example" and "a classical example" have slightly different meanings. "Classic" refers to something that is well-known and representative, while "classical" refers to something related to ancient Greece or Rome, or to a traditional style of art or music. Therefore, "a classic example" is generally more appropriate when referring to a typical or well-known instance.

What's the difference between "a classic example" and "a typical example"?

While both phrases introduce an instance, "a classic example" suggests the example is not only representative but also highly recognized and often referenced, while "a typical example" simply indicates that the example is representative of a broader category or pattern.