a gross example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a gross example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an instance that is extreme or excessive in a negative way, often highlighting something that is considered inappropriate or offensive. Example: "The report provided a gross example of negligence in the workplace that could not be overlooked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But the Murtha operation — which has become a model for other entrepreneurial lawmakers — is a gross example of quid pro quo Washington.

The New York Times

As the suckers turn back to the stage, realizing that they've been tricked with a gross example of what magicians call misdirection, Penn finishes what he was saying about the audience's only responsibility: "At no time allow your eyes to wander".

The New Yorker

"It's also a gross example of undermining the rule of law.

Huffington Post

To release it in the direct aftermath of Charlottesville, in the throes of Harvey, is a gross example of pastoral & leadership malpractice.

Huffington Post

Depending on who you wanted to listen to, Meghan Trainor's throwaway novelty hit "All About That Bass" was either a body-positive rallying cry for young women everywhere or a gross example of "skinny shaming".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

To give a crude example, gross value accounting means that if a trader makes a market in an energy derivative and matches an energy contract to buy energy for $1 million with an offsetting obligation to sell it for $1.01 million, he considers his revenue to be $1.01 million.

Forbes

The plan to develop the one last rural village in Singapore is a poignant and gross example of what is happening globally on a cultural and environmental level.

The New York Times

Let one gross example stand for the book's innumerable bummers: Jimmy wanders outdoors, struggling to compose, in his mind, his first-ever letter to his father.

The New Yorker

There's also a track record in recent years of Franklin Graham redirecting his father (and mother) against their own wishes, the most gross example being Franklin's decision to move his parents burial site from their family home in the North Carolina mountains -- where Ruth Graham had clearly wished to be buried, alongside her husband -- to the Charlotte headquarters of the BGEA.

Huffington Post

In 1993, Mr. Clinton agreed to an uneasy "don't ask, don't tell" compromise on gays in the military, a policy that led to hypocrisy, dishonesty and preposterous outcomes, not to mention gross examples of blackmail and abuse.

The New York Times

There are many gross examples of duplitecture in mainland China.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a gross example", ensure the context clearly indicates the negative aspect being highlighted. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing the extreme or unacceptable nature of the instance.

Common error

Avoid using "a gross example" when a milder term would suffice. Overusing strong language can dilute its impact and make your writing seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a gross example" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, typically highlighting a particular instance as being exceptionally negative or inappropriate. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a gross example" is a phrase used to highlight an instance considered extremely negative or inappropriate. Ludwig AI indicates that its grammatical status is correct, and it is found primarily in News & Media contexts. While phrases like "a flagrant example" or "an egregious example" can serve as alternatives, the choice depends on the desired emphasis. The key is to use the phrase judiciously to maintain its impact and avoid hyperbole.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a flagrant example

Replaces 'gross' with 'flagrant', emphasizing the obvious and scandalous nature of the example.

an egregious example

Substitutes 'gross' with 'egregious', highlighting the shockingly bad or outstandingly terrible aspect of the example.

a blatant example

Uses 'blatant' instead of 'gross', stressing the obvious and unconcealed nature of the example.

a clear example

Replaces 'gross' with 'clear', focusing on the unambiguous and easily understandable nature of the example.

an obvious example

Emphasizes that the example is easily noticeable or apparent.

a striking example

Highlights how the example stands out in a noteworthy way.

a conspicuous example

Indicates the example is very easy to notice.

a prime example

Denotes that the example is the best or most typical.

a telling example

Conveys that the example reveals something significant.

a classic case

Replaces "example" to refer to a typical or well-known instance of something, implying something is easily recognized.

FAQs

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

You can use "a gross example" to highlight an instance that is extremely inappropriate, offensive, or unacceptable. For example, "The politician's blatant disregard for ethics was "a gross example" of corruption."

What phrases can I use instead of "a gross example"?

Alternatives include "a flagrant example", "an egregious example", or "a blatant example", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a gross example" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a gross example" can sound informal or overly critical in certain formal contexts. Consider using a more nuanced or professional alternative like "a clear example" or "a telling example" in formal writing.

What's the difference between "a gross example" and "a clear example"?

"A gross example" emphasizes the extreme and negative nature of the instance, while "a clear example" simply indicates that the instance is easy to understand or obvious, without necessarily implying disapproval.