a similar example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a similar example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to an example that shares characteristics or context with another example previously mentioned. Example: "To illustrate this point further, let me provide a similar example from my own experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Walsh offered a similar example from lacrosse.

The New York Times

(The Atlantic herring [Clupea harengus] is a similar example).

Encyclopedia Britannica

(A similar example is offered by "roll" and "role").

Independent

A similar example appears in the written documents that the tangled underplots require.

The New York Times

A similar example of coevolution has occurred in the endemic mollusks and crabs in Lake Tanganyika.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A similar example is the new Amsterdam Town Hall, now the Royal Palace, which had an extensive decoration program.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We can look back to the 2013 Senate special election race in Massachusetts, just a few months ago, for a similar example.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr Putin's main complaint about the army is that it is wasteful and ineffective, not that it is brutal and lawless.Reform of government is a similar example.

The Economist

(See a similar example that's doing just that here).

TechCrunch

Last-minute tickets sometimes provide a similar example.

BBC

Let's put it this way by introducing a similar example.

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a similar example", ensure the connection to the original example is clear to the reader. Briefly explain the similarities to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a similar example" without clearly specifying what makes it similar. Readers need to understand the relevant shared characteristics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a similar example" functions as a transitional phrase used to introduce an analogous situation or instance that reinforces a preceding point or illustrates a concept further. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a similar example" is a very common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce an analogous case or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions as a transitional element to provide supporting evidence or clarification. It is prevalent across various contexts, including science, news, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure the similarity between the examples is clear to the reader. Consider alternative phrases like "an analogous case" or "a comparable instance" to add variety to your writing. Remember that vague usage of "a similar example" without specifying the similarities can confuse your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

An analogous case

Emphasizes the similarity in circumstances or conditions.

A comparable instance

Highlights the comparability or equivalence between two situations.

A parallel situation

Focuses on the parallel nature of two scenarios.

A related illustration

Stresses the connection or relevance to the original point.

A corresponding scenario

Indicates a direct correspondence or matching element.

A like occurrence

Highlights the similarity in the event or happening.

An equivalent situation

Emphasizes the equivalence or interchangeability of the two cases.

Another such case

Indicates that the new instance shares qualities or characteristcs with the old.

A matching parallel

Highlights a parallel with comparable instances.

An identical scenario

Focuses on the identical characteristics between the two situations, but has a different emphasis.

FAQs

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

You can use "a similar example" to introduce a case that shares characteristics with a previously mentioned one. For instance, "The company faced a data breach last year. "A similar example" occurred with one of its competitors this year".

What's a good alternative to using "a similar example"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "an analogous case", "a comparable instance", or "a parallel situation".

Is it always necessary to provide "a similar example" when making a point?

No, providing "a similar example" is not always necessary. It's helpful when you want to reinforce your point by showing that the same principle or outcome occurs in another, related situation. However, you need to be certain about the similarity.

How does "a similar example" differ from "the same example"?

"A similar example" introduces a different instance that shares key characteristics with the original, whereas "the same example" refers back to the original one already mentioned.