a representative example

USAGE SUMMARY

This phrase is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to provide an illustrative example to support your argument. For example: "As a representative example, we can look at the case of company X..."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A representative example is presented.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

The Washington Post's "New Orleans Betrayed" is a representative example.

The New York Times

All the developed results are tested on a representative example.

European Journal of Control

The approach is tested with a representative example through simulations.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

A representative example for such a model is the one proposed by Landis.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

In the latter case, transonic cascade flow was chosen as a representative example.

Journal of Computational Physics

Layered composites have been investigated as a representative example to study this numerical issue.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

But let's look at Say You Will as a representative example of his "pop-art".

The Guardian - Music

(c) A representative example of per base sequence quality for RRBS data (sample: X9015).

Nature

A representative example of the detection of STAT5 and STAT3 phosphorylation is illustrated in Fig. 6C.

Nature

A representative example is the DNA repair system, which ensures the integrity of genetic information71.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "a representative example" with a concise explanation of why it's representative. This reinforces the connection for your audience and prevents misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid selecting examples that are too niche or unusual when you intend to provide "a representative example". Using an atypical case can mislead your audience and weaken your argument. Ensure the example accurately reflects the typical characteristics of the group or concept you are discussing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a representative example" functions as an appositive or introductory phrase that signals the provision of a specific instance intended to illustrate a broader concept, trend, or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a representative example" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a specific instance that embodies the qualities of a larger group or concept. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse fields like science, news media, and encyclopedias. When employing this phrase, ensure that your chosen example genuinely reflects the broader concept to avoid misleading your audience. Alternatives such as "a typical instance" or "an illustrative case" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical instance

Emphasizes the typicality of the example.

an illustrative case

Focuses on the example's ability to clarify or explain.

a prime illustration

Highlights the example's excellence in representing something.

a classic demonstration

Implies the example is a well-known and standard representation.

a good demonstration

Suggests that the example displays something effectively

a case in point

Offers a direct and concise way to introduce an example.

a clear-cut instance

Highlights the clarity and unambiguity of the example.

a telling example

Emphasizes the significance and informativeness of the example.

a fitting illustration

Stresses the appropriateness of the example

a sample example

Although somewhat redundant, it emphasizes the sampling aspect of the example.

FAQs

How to use "a representative example" in a sentence?

You can use "a representative example" to introduce an illustration that typifies a broader concept. For instance, "The study used several case studies; "a representative example" is the Smith family's experience."

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

You can use alternatives like "a typical instance", "an illustrative case", or "a prime illustration" depending on the context.

When should I use "a representative example"?

Use "a representative example" when you want to provide a specific instance that accurately reflects the characteristics of a larger group or concept. It's suitable when you need to illustrate a general principle with a concrete case.

What's the difference between "a representative example" and "a typical example"?

While both phrases indicate a common instance, "a representative example" emphasizes that the instance accurately reflects the larger group's characteristics, whereas "a typical example" simply highlights its commonness. They are often interchangeable, but "a representative example" suggests a more careful selection process to ensure accuracy.