a real example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to provide a concrete instance or illustration of a concept or idea. Example: "To better understand the theory, let me give you a real example from my own experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's a real example.

The New York Times

Take that!" That's a real example.

The New York Times - Tech

A real example is presented and discussed.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

A real example of the third category is then presented.

The New Yorker

"Let's not use a real example, O.K.?" No Beard said.

The New Yorker

(Not a real example, but closer than you might think).

The New Yorker

"We think it's a real example for England.

The Guardian - Sport

"That is a real example of how to face adversity".

Independent

The algorithm was tested by a real example.

Physics Procedia

The method is tested with a real example.

Measurement

We also illustrate the proposed method with a real example.

Computers & Industrial Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a real example", ensure it's relevant to the topic and that the connection is clear to the reader.

Common error

Avoid drawing broad conclusions based solely on "a real example". Always acknowledge that one instance might not represent the whole picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real example" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves to introduce a specific instance or illustration to support a claim or argument. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and serves to provide concrete evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

44%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a real example" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to introduce a concrete illustration or instance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to provide clarity and support to an argument. It's suitable for diverse contexts like science, news, and business. When employing "a real example", ensure its relevance and avoid overgeneralizing from it. Consider alternative phrases such as "a concrete instance" or "a specific illustration" for variety. The phrase is highly functional across multiple fields and source types, adding weight to statements and arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a concrete instance

Focuses on the tangibility and specificity of the example.

a specific illustration

Emphasizes the illustrative nature and particularity of the example.

a tangible demonstration

Highlights the demonstrative aspect, making the example palpable.

an actual case

Indicates the example is based on something that truly happened.

a practical demonstration

Stresses the real-world application of the example.

a relevant instance

Highlights that the example is pertinent and applicable to the context.

a genuine illustration

Suggests the example is authentic and not fabricated.

a telling example

Highlights that the example is revealing and informative.

a prime illustration

Suggests the example is excellent and typical.

a clear-cut instance

Highlights the unambiguity and straightforwardness of the example.

FAQs

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

You can use "a real example" to introduce a specific instance that supports your argument or illustrates a point. For instance, "To understand this concept, let's consider "a real example" from the field of economics."

What are some alternatives to saying "a real example"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a concrete instance", "a specific illustration", or "an actual case", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a real example"? Isn't an example always real?

While most examples are intended to be real, using "a real example" can emphasize that you are providing a factual, verifiable instance, as opposed to a hypothetical one. It adds a layer of credibility.

How does "a real example" differ from "a hypothetical example"?

"A real example" refers to an actual event or situation that has occurred, whereas "a hypothetical example" describes a scenario that is imagined or created for illustrative purposes. If you cannot think of "a real example", you can describe "a hypothetical example".