a classic example of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a classic example of" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to introduce a specific example or instance that is widely recognized or commonly used as an illustration of a particular concept or idea. Example: The Mona Lisa is a classic example of the Renaissance style of art, with its use of perspective and realistic depiction of human anatomy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A classic example of New York City hospitality.

The New York Times

A classic example of this is DDT.

Cornell University

Space is a classic example of that.

The Guardian

"It's a classic example of aposiopesis".

The New Yorker

Stayman is a classic example of this.

The New York Times

HillaryClinton.com is a classic example of this.

The Guardian - Opinion

Antibiotics are a classic example of overuse.

The New York Times

So that's a classic example of a motive.

Yale University

Brexit is a classic example of leaping before you look.

University of California, Berkeley

A classic example of this is the weather.

Cornell University

So that's a classic example of a common value auction.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a classic example of", ensure that the example you provide is genuinely well-known and representative of the concept you're illustrating. Avoid using it for obscure or debatable instances.

Common error

While "a classic example of" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in informal or casual writing. Over-reliance can make your writing sound stilted. Instead, opt for simpler alternatives like "for example" or "such as".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a classic example of" functions as an appositive phrase used to introduce and highlight a specific instance that embodies a more general concept. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct. It connects a general idea to a well-known illustration, helping to clarify and emphasize the concept.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a classic example of" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to introduce a well-known instance that exemplifies a broader concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, its purpose is to clarify and support arguments, most often in neutral to formal registers like news, academia, and business. While versatile, writers should avoid overuse in informal contexts. Considering alternatives like "a typical instance of" or "a prime illustration of" can add nuance. Ultimately, effectively using "a classic example of" requires ensuring that the provided instance is indeed widely recognized and clearly representative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical instance of

Replaces "example" with "instance" and "classic" with "typical", focusing on representativeness rather than exceptional quality.

a prime illustration of

Substitutes "example" with "illustration" and "classic" with "prime", highlighting the clarity and prominence of the case.

a textbook case of

Replaces "classic example" with "textbook case", suggesting that the example is paradigmatic and widely studied.

a perfect demonstration of

Changes "example" to "demonstration" and "classic" to "perfect", emphasizing the clarity and effectiveness of the example in showing something.

a clear cut instance of

Uses "clear cut" to highlight the obvious and unambiguous nature of the example.

a noteworthy illustration of

Replaces "classic" with "noteworthy", drawing attention to the significance or interesting nature of the example.

a standard bearer for

Uses a metaphorical term indicating leadership and high achievement in exemplifying something.

a shining paradigm of

Replaces "example" with "paradigm" and uses "shining" to highlight the quality of the example.

a telling portrayal of

Substitutes "example" with "portrayal" and "classic" with "telling", emphasizing how well the example reveals or illustrates something.

a defining moment for

Replaces "example" with "defining moment", shifting the focus to the impact and importance of the event or case.

FAQs

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

Use "a classic example of" to introduce an instance that is widely recognized and clearly represents a broader concept. For instance, "The Mona Lisa is "a classic example of" Renaissance art".

What phrases are similar to "a classic example of"?

Alternatives include "a typical instance of", "a prime illustration of", or "a textbook case of". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "classic" when giving an example?

No, using "classic" isn't always necessary. Whether or not to include it depends on the context. Using simply "an example of" is suitable for common or less prominent instances.

What is the difference between "a classic example of" and "a typical example of"?

"A classic example of" implies that the instance is not only representative but also well-known, highly regarded, and has stood the test of time. "A typical example of" simply means that the instance is representative, without necessarily being famous or outstanding.