a comparable instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a comparable instance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an example or situation that is similar to another in some way. Example: "In discussing the effects of climate change, we can look at a comparable instance in history, such as the Dust Bowl of the 1930s."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Military legal experts said today that they could not recall a comparable instance when a branch of the service re-evaluated the punishments in determining whether subsequent awards and promotions were consistent with the reprimands.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

ComScore says that, for as long as it has been measuring digital audiences, there isn't even a remotely comparable instance of a website or app capturing as large an audience as Pokémon Go did in such a short time.

TechCrunch

Since a strict Supreme Court ruling in 1976, there is only one comparable instance of a court issuing a gag order on a newspaper to ensure a fair trial.

The Economist

This Court can find no comparable instance in which Congress legislated an exemption through a parenthetical numerical cross-reference.

Cornell University

We can find no comparable instance in which Congress legislated an exemption through an inexplicit numerical cross-reference–especially a cross-reference that might easily escape notice.

Cornell University

One German crew was hospitalised after being attacked by a nationalist mob last week, and there have been several other comparable instances.

The Guardian - Opinion

What they did is completely unprecedented in American history (as a study by legal scholars -- who examined over 100 relevant comparable instances -- determined).

Huffington Post

The other comparable instances are the downgrades of America and Japan.

The Economist

For each CSP we consider 4 comparable instances sizes (S, M, L, and XL).

Journal of Cloud Computing

One possible explanation of such redundancy is that some crucial molecular determinants are shared, thus explaining the partial similarity in cell fates; alternatively, in the absence of shared molecular characteristics, the global causal network of patterning genes may allow separate pathways that entail a comparable result (for instance, via different enhancers; Puelles and Ferran 2012).

Brain Structure and Function

The low response rate may reflect the fact that Finns do not perceive a hazard from mobile phones or that mobile phones are such an integral part of everyday life that even a small risk would be acceptable (a situation comparable, for instance, to traffic-related health risks).

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When relating legal or historical events, using "a comparable instance" can effectively illustrate precedents or recurring patterns. Be precise in presenting the contextual similarities.

Common error

Avoid using "a comparable instance" if the similarities are superficial or the differences outweigh the parallels. Ensure a genuine alignment between the instances to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a comparable instance" serves as a noun phrase that introduces a specific example or situation for comparison. It is frequently used to draw parallels and highlight similarities between distinct occurrences. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a comparable instance" is a grammatically sound and useful way to introduce examples that share key similarities with the topic at hand. As Ludwig AI confirms, its correct usage helps draw parallels, strengthen arguments, and clarify complex subjects. While not extremely common, it appears across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Academia. When using this phrase, ensure the comparison is valid and relevant to enhance the clarity and credibility of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a similar case

Focuses on the similarity of events rather than the comparative aspect of the instance.

a parallel situation

Highlights the parallel nature of the circumstances being compared.

an analogous example

Emphasizes the analogous nature, drawing connections based on similar characteristics.

a related occurrence

Broader term that simply indicates a connection without necessarily being fully comparable.

a matching event

Stresses the identical qualities and aspects of compared events

a corresponding situation

Implies a direct correlation or relationship, with shared attributes.

an equivalent scenario

Highlights that the two scenarios have the same effect or outcome.

a twin episode

Indicates that the two instances share similar details.

a like circumstance

Highlights how circumstances mirror each other.

a replicated event

Highlights that the event already happened in identical ways.

FAQs

How can I use "a comparable instance" in a sentence?

You can use "a comparable instance" to draw parallels between two events, situations, or examples, highlighting their similarities. For example: "In discussing the effects of climate change, we can look at "a similar case" in history, such as the Dust Bowl of the 1930s."

What are some alternatives to using "a comparable instance"?

Alternatives include "a similar case", "a parallel situation", or "an analogous example". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "a comparable instance" or "a similar instance"?

Both "a comparable instance" and "a similar instance" are grammatically correct, but "a comparable instance" suggests a more thorough evaluation of shared attributes, while "a similar instance" simply implies a resemblance.

What is the difference between "a comparable instance" and "an example"?

"An example" is a general term for something that illustrates a point. "A comparable instance" is a specific type of example that shares significant similarities with something else being discussed.