a common illustration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common illustration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a widely recognized example or depiction that helps to explain a concept or idea. Example: "In many textbooks, a common illustration of the water cycle is used to help students understand the process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A common illustration showed naked sinners engulfed in Satan's mouth.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Despite being a common pedagogical illustration, the enantiomers of thalidomide interconvert in the body because of the acidic hydrogen at the chiral center.

Vice

One common illustration is called Transplant.

SEP

Feeling pain and sensing colors are common illustrations of phenomenally conscious states.

SEP

The Chinese dictionary-encyclopaedia Erh Ya probably dates from about 300 BC and describes about 334 plants classed as trees or shrubs, each with a common name and illustration.

Wikipedia

These pocket-sized guides utilize monochrome illustrations in both a common manner (distribution maps, an illustrated glossary, keys) and in an innovative way through use of iconic symbols.

AoB PLANTS

Each chapter beging with an illustration of a common object endowed with great significance through their love.

Huffington Post

Given their potential to confuse or distract patients, an alternative would be to replace illustrations with a common symbol, such as a large exclamation mark, to reinforce the importance of the accompanying text.

BMC Family Practice

The trionfi each bore a different allegorical illustration instead of a common suitmark.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A common way of analysing the development of jobs is through graphical illustration.

SERIEs

The abbreviations, acronyms, illustrations, and other shortcuts save you time and ensure a common understanding.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common illustration", ensure that the example you provide is indeed widely known and easily relatable to your target audience to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid using overly familiar or clichéd illustrations. While the phrase implies a common example, ensure that your illustration still adds value and doesn't come across as unoriginal or trite.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common illustration" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to introduce an example that is widely recognized and understood. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase, serving to clarify concepts by referencing familiar images or instances.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common illustration" is a versatile phrase used to introduce widely recognized examples, enhancing clarity and understanding in various contexts. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While the phrase is valuable, it's important to avoid using clichéd examples and ensure the illustration is relevant to your audience. Alternatives such as "a typical example" or "a frequent depiction" can be used to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical example

Focuses on the representativeness of the example.

a standard illustration

Emphasizes the conformity of the illustration to established norms.

a frequent depiction

Highlights how often the illustration is used or seen.

a well-known instance

Stresses the familiarity of the example to the audience.

a classic case

Suggests the example is a traditional and widely recognized one.

a familiar representation

Indicates a widespread understanding of the illustration.

a prevalent example

Underscores the widespread nature of the example.

a routine demonstration

Conveys the idea that the illustration is used regularly.

a typical portrayal

Highlights how the illustration represents something in a standard way.

a commonplace depiction

Emphasizes the ordinary and widespread nature of the illustration.

FAQs

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

You can use "a common illustration" to introduce an example that is widely known and helps explain a concept. For example, "A common illustration of this principle is the boiling frog story".

What are some alternatives to "a common illustration"?

Alternatives include "a typical example", "a standard illustration", or "a frequent depiction", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a common illustration"?

It's appropriate when you want to use an example or image that is widely recognized and understood to clarify a concept or argument. It helps create a shared understanding with your audience.

What is the difference between "a common illustration" and "a specific example"?

"A common illustration" refers to a general, well-known example, while "a specific example" points to a particular, possibly unique, instance used for clarification.