a sample item

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sample item" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a representative example of a product, object, or concept, often in contexts like research, marketing, or product demonstrations. Example: "Please review a sample item from our new collection to understand the quality and design we offer."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Here's Beth Leary," runs a sample item.

The New Yorker

A sample item was "We support each other at work".

Frontiers of Business Research in China

A sample item is "Our team worked together in a well-coordinated fashion".

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

A sample item was "I use signs to communicate that the workspace has been claimed".

Frontiers of Business Research in China

A sample item follows: Mason to Wall is as… 1. Artist to Easel   2.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

Let us consider a sample item from the test with PARA.

Language Testing in Asia

A sample item is, "In most situations, managers should make decisions without consulting their subordinates".

Frontiers of Business Research in China

A sample item was "I sense that this is MY company".

Frontiers of Business Research in China

A sample item is "Using online social networks gives me more chances of practicing English.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

We define each code and provide a sample item for each in Table 1.

International Journal of STEM Education

Figure 3 shows the proportion correct conditional on response time for a sample item.

Large-scale Assessments in Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sample item", ensure the item truly represents the larger group it is intended to exemplify. Provide context to clarify its relevance.

Common error

Avoid using "a sample item" if the selected item is not representative or typical of the broader category. This can lead to inaccurate conclusions or misleading impressions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sample item" functions as a noun phrase, serving to identify a particular item chosen as representative of a larger group. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used. Examples show its use in diverse contexts, from scientific research to journalistic writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

79%

News & Media

13%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sample item" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to an item chosen as representative of a larger group. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is prevalent in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the item accurately reflects the characteristics of the group it represents. Alternatives include "an example item" or "a specimen item", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Be mindful of potential misrepresentation errors by verifying the item's typicality before labeling it as a sample. The phrase serves to provide a tangible illustration within a broader discussion, enhancing understanding and clarity for the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an example item

Replaces "sample" with "example", offering a more direct synonym.

a specimen item

Uses "specimen" to emphasize the representative nature of the item.

a representative item

Highlights the item's role in representing a larger set.

a typical item

Focuses on the item being characteristic or standard.

a demonstration item

Suggests the item is used for illustrating or showcasing.

a test item

Emphasizes the item's use in testing or evaluation.

a model item

Implies the item serves as a pattern or example to follow.

a trial item

Suggests the item is being used for a preliminary test or experiment.

a preview item

Highlights the item's role in giving an advance look.

a mock item

Indicates the item is a simulation or imitation.

FAQs

How can I use "a sample item" in a sentence?

You can use "a sample item" to introduce an example from a larger set, such as in research or product demonstrations. For example, "Here's a sample item from the survey to illustrate the type of questions asked."

What can I say instead of "a sample item"?

You can use alternatives like "an example item", "a specimen item", or "a representative item" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a sample item" in formal writing?

Yes, "a sample item" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in research reports, academic papers, and professional documents where providing examples is necessary.

What's the difference between "a sample item" and "a random item"?

"A sample item" is chosen to be representative of a larger group, while "a random item" is selected without any specific criteria, often to ensure impartiality.