a example of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a example of" is not correct in English.
It should be "an example of" because "example" begins with a vowel sound. You can use the correct phrase when you want to illustrate or provide a specific instance of something. Example: "This is an example of how effective teamwork can lead to success."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A) Example of a SNP cluster plot with good separation.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

A example of its mixture of multiple choice questions and essays is available here.

The Guardian

(After they are dumped in the sea, there is a fine a example of actual humour in Bond one-liners: "Just a drop in the ocean").

The Guardian - Film

Founded as a counter both to U.S. influence in the region and to radical Islam, it is publicly seen as a example of Sino-Russian cooperation.

The New York Times

He also gives a example of people following debates on Twitter, using "answer" or "#dodge" to assess whether a candidate answered questions.

The Guardian

As a example of such a relationship, he pointed to the nascent venture between Merrill Lynch, the nation's largest brokerage firm, and HSBC, the London-based banking company.

The New York Times

But the Hiawatha is a example of how, given the proper planning, light rail can do more than just succeed it can prove cheaper than buses.

The Economist

(a) Example of an infrared chip.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

a: Example of chronic migraine diary.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

a Example of a dense kernel.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

a Example of the subarray geometry.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider alternative phrases like "a case of" or "an instance of" for variety and precision in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a example of". Remember that the article "a" is used before consonant sounds, not vowels. The correct usage is "an example of" because "example" begins with a vowel sound.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a example of" is intended to function as a determiner followed by a noun phrase, aiming to introduce a specific instance or illustration. However, due to the incorrect article usage, it fails to properly perform this function. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which identifies it as incorrect.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a example of" is a grammatically incorrect construction that appears frequently across various sources. According to Ludwig AI, the correct form is "an example of", as "example" begins with a vowel sound. Despite its common usage, especially in science and news media, the error affects its credibility. To avoid this mistake, always use "an" before vowel sounds or consider alternatives like "a case of" or "an instance of" for clearer and more accurate communication. While the intended meaning is often understood, adhering to proper grammar enhances the professional quality of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an illustration of

Corrects the grammatical error by using "an" instead of "a" before the vowel sound, while still denoting a visual or descriptive instance.

an instance of

Replaces "example" with "instance" to provide a direct alternative emphasizing a particular occurrence.

a case of

Offers an alternative that highlights a specific situation or event as representative.

a demonstration of

Suggests a more active showing or proof of a concept or principle.

a display of

Implies a presentation or exhibition of something, showcasing its qualities.

a manifestation of

Highlights how something is revealed or becomes apparent.

a sample of

Indicates a representative portion used to understand the whole.

a representation of

Emphasizes the act of portraying or symbolizing something else.

a type of

Indicates a particular category or kind within a broader classification.

a form of

Denotes a specific shape or way in which something exists or appears.

FAQs

What is the correct way to say "a example of"?

The correct phrase is "an example of". The article "an" should be used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

What can I say instead of "a example of"?

You can use phrases like "an instance of", "a case of", or "an illustration of" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a example of" or "an example of"?

"An example of" is the grammatically correct phrase. The article "an" is used before words that start with a vowel sound.

What's the difference between "a example of" and "an example of"?

"A example of" is grammatically incorrect. "An example of" is the correct phrase to use when providing an instance of something, because "example" begins with a vowel sound.