a delightful instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a delightful instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific example or occurrence that is particularly enjoyable or pleasing. Example: "The picnic was a delightful instance of how a simple gathering can create lasting memories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a delightful instance of theatrical transformation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"The minister of planning, for instance, was a delightful man, not a fanatic at all".

The New York Times

But in rare instances it arrives at a delightful temperature on scenic public lands where it is available to all comers as a quasi tax return.

The New York Times - Travel

In any case, the gesture came as a delightful shock.

The New Yorker

What a delightful story.

The New York Times

He was a delightful, delightful man".

The Guardian - Music

It's a delightful dip.

The New Yorker

It was a delightful evening.

The New York Times

What a delightful book!

The New York Times - Books

What a delightful article!

The New York Times

It is a delightful feeling.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a delightful instance" to highlight a specific example that not only illustrates a point but also provides a sense of pleasure or enjoyment. It is best suited for contexts where the emotional impact of the example is relevant.

Common error

Avoid using "a delightful instance" in highly formal or academic writing where a more neutral and objective tone is preferred. Opt for phrases like "a notable example" or "a significant case" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a delightful instance" functions as a noun phrase that includes a descriptive adjective. It modifies a noun (instance) to describe a specific example as pleasing or enjoyable. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a delightful instance" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase employed to describe a pleasing or enjoyable example. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, though its rarity suggests selective usage. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it subtly elevates an example with a touch of pleasure. To prevent overuse in formal contexts, consider neutral alternatives such as "a notable example" or "a significant case". Its deliberate deployment enriches communication by adding both illustration and positive emotional resonance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a charming example

Replaces "delightful" with "charming", maintaining the positive connotation but altering the tone.

a pleasing illustration

Substitutes "instance" with "illustration", highlighting the representative nature of the example while keeping a positive feel.

a pleasant occurrence

Focuses on the agreeableness of the event, rather than its specific quality as an example.

a joyful occasion

Emphasizes the happiness associated with the event, shifting the focus from the illustrative aspect.

a wonderful case

Uses "wonderful" to convey the positive aspect and "case" instead of "instance", changing the specific nuance.

a lovely event

Replaces the focus on the example with a general positive description of the event itself.

a gratifying situation

Highlights the satisfying nature of the event, rather than its illustrative quality.

an exquisite happening

Elevates the tone with "exquisite", emphasizing the refined and beautiful nature of the occurrence.

a satisfying episode

Emphasizes the fulfillment derived from the episode, rather than its illustrative quality.

a remarkable incident

Focuses on the noteworthiness of the incident, rather than its pleasantness.

FAQs

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

You can use "a delightful instance" to describe a situation or event that serves as an enjoyable example of something. For example, "The picnic was "a delightful instance" of how simple gatherings can create lasting memories."

What are some alternatives to "a delightful instance"?

Some alternatives include "a charming example", "a pleasing illustration", or "a joyful occasion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a delightful instance" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a delightful instance" might be perceived as too informal for some academic or professional contexts. Consider using more neutral alternatives like "a notable example" or "a significant case" in those settings.

What makes "a delightful instance" different from "a good example"?

"A delightful instance" emphasizes the enjoyable and pleasing nature of the example, while "a good example" simply highlights its effectiveness in illustrating a point. The former is more subjective and emotionally charged.