a revealing example of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a revealing example of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to highlight a specific instance that illustrates a broader concept or idea, often in analytical or descriptive writing. Example: "The study provided a revealing example of how social media influences public opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

A revealing example of backward thinking.

The New York Times

I think it was a revealing example of how newspapers tend to inflate their own scoops.

The New York Times

The recent bankruptcy of Detroit is a revealing example of the shift.

The Economist

Her troubled relationship with Sally Quinn, some argue, is itself a revealing example of diplomatic failure: the wages of well-meant counsel spurned.

The New Yorker

The impasse is a revealing example of how sensitive the issue of intelligence lapses before Sept. 11 remains for the administration.

The New York Times

Managing editor Jill Abramson stoutly defends the placement of "Vermont Auditors Faulted Dean Aide on Contract in '92" (Jan . 6, by Rick Lyman, because "this was a revealing example of how Dean handled the award of a lucrative state contract to a company connected to a close political ally".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

A revealing example is her translation of the Preface, which, as many scholars have observed, cannily appropriates the high-flown language of Homeric epic to a revolutionary new project: to record the deeds of real men in real historical time.

The New Yorker

The Telegraph's Jeremy Warner argued that a conservative vision has been the inspiration for Britain's gold rush: "For those interested in the history of ideas, there could scarcely be a more revealing example of the way individualism, with its focus on outcompeting rivals, repeatedly triumphs over collectivism".

The Guardian

A particularly revealing example of data dredging is the Anturane reinfarction trial.

British Medical Journal

The fate of the forceps is a revealing example.

The New Yorker

Ebony South Africa's final cover story, on the soccer star Lucas Radebe, was a revealing example, Mr. Mtshali said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a revealing example of" to introduce a specific instance that sheds light on a broader trend or concept, enhancing clarity and impact in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a revealing example of" when a simpler term like "for example" or "an instance of" would suffice; reserve it for situations where the example genuinely unveils a deeper insight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a revealing example of" functions as an introductory phrase to highlight the significance of a particular instance. As Ludwig AI points out, it's used to showcase how a specific case provides insight into a broader concept or trend.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a revealing example of" serves as an effective tool for introducing instances that provide valuable insights. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific writing. While suitable for formal and neutral registers, it should be reserved for cases where the example genuinely unveils deeper understanding rather than for simplistic illustrations. Alternatives such as "an illustrative instance of" or "a telling case of" can provide similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an illustrative instance of

Emphasizes the illustrative quality of the example being presented.

a telling case of

Highlights that the example reveals something significant or important.

a demonstrative illustration of

Focuses on the example serving as a clear and effective demonstration.

an insightful depiction of

Suggests the example provides a deeper understanding or perspective.

a striking instance of

Emphasizes the noteworthiness or impressiveness of the example.

a clearcut illustration of

Highlights the clarity and unambiguous nature of the example.

a symptomatic sample of

Indicates the example is representative of a larger issue or trend.

an enlightening representation of

Suggests that the example helps to illuminate a topic or concept.

a graphic portrayal of

Emphasizes the vividness and detail of the example in illustrating something.

a significant manifestation of

Highlights the importance and impact of the example as a demonstration of something.

FAQs

How can I use "a revealing example of" in a sentence?

Use "a revealing example of" to introduce a specific case that highlights a broader issue or trend. For instance, "The company's marketing strategy shift is "a revealing example of" how businesses are adapting to changing consumer preferences".

What are some alternatives to "a revealing example of"?

Alternatives include "an illustrative instance of", "a telling case of", or "a demonstrative illustration of", each adding a slightly different nuance to the idea of providing an insightful example.

Is "a revealing example of" formal or informal?

"A revealing example of" is generally suitable for formal and semi-formal contexts. In very informal settings, simpler phrases like "for example" might be more appropriate.

What makes an example 'revealing'?

An example is 'revealing' when it uncovers something not immediately obvious, providing insight into a larger pattern, problem, or concept. It goes beyond mere illustration to offer deeper understanding.