a common example

USAGE SUMMARY

"a common example" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it whenever you are providing an example of something that is widely known and understood. For example: "The law of gravity is a common example of a scientific law."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A common example is women's apparently weak libido.

The Guardian

This is a common example of decision fatigue.

The Guardian

Printers are a common example of output devices.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A common example is graphite, the stuff of pencils.

The Economist

Most locals saw it as a common example of insurance fraud along a major transportation artery.

The New York Times

A common example, Mr. Zinke said, is companies' unwillingness to offer training to older workers.

The New York Times

A common example is loden cloth, first produced in Austria in the 16th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A common example of this phenomenon is the oscillating charge or current in a radio antenna.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Milk is a common example of an oil-in-water emulsion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A common example in stony-bottomed European waters is the gibbous starlet (Asterina gibbosa).

Encyclopedia Britannica

A common example is the generation of radio waves by oscillating electric charges in an antenna.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common example", ensure that the example is genuinely well-known and easily understood by your target audience to effectively illustrate your point.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on overly simplistic or generic examples when using "a common example". Strive for examples that are relevant and provide meaningful insights to enhance the depth of your explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common example" functions primarily as an introductory phrase, signaling the presentation of an instance that is widely known or understood. It serves to illustrate and clarify a concept, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common example" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to introduce a well-known instance that clarifies a concept. As Ludwig AI indicates, its primary function is to enhance understanding by providing relatable examples across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While it maintains a neutral register, ensuring clarity and relevance in your examples is key to effective communication. By avoiding overly simplistic examples and focusing on meaningful insights, you can maximize the impact of this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical instance

Replaces "common" with "typical", emphasizing the representativeness of the example.

a frequent illustration

Substitutes "example" with "illustration", highlighting the explanatory nature of the instance.

a classic demonstration

Uses "classic" to suggest a well-known and established example, and "demonstration" to refer to showing something

a notable case

Employs "notable" to indicate an example that is significant or worthy of attention.

a well-known occurrence

Replaces "example" with "occurrence", focusing on the event itself.

a standard scenario

Emphasizes the typical or expected nature of the example by using "standard scenario".

a representative sample

Highlights that the example is part of a bigger group with the same qualities.

a prime illustration

Uses "prime" to indicate the top rank of the example

a textbook case

Implies the example is so standard, it's found in educational materials.

for instance

Short, direct way of introducing a single example. It focuses on the act of exemplification

FAQs

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

You can use "a common example" to introduce an instance that helps illustrate or clarify a point. For example, "Milk is a common example of an oil-in-water emulsion".

What are some alternatives to using "a common example"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a typical instance", "a frequent illustration", or "for instance".

Is it redundant to say "a common example"?

While "common" might seem implicit in the idea of an example, the phrase emphasizes that the example is widely known and understood, making it suitable for a general audience. It is generally acceptable and not considered overly redundant.

What makes an example "common"?

A "common" example is one that is generally recognized, easily relatable, and frequently encountered across various contexts. It helps the audience quickly grasp the concept being illustrated.