a small example of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small example of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a simple example or illustration of a concept, idea, or phenomenon. For example, "A small example of the power of language is the ability to start a revolution with a single speech."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The [Jimmy Savile scandal] was a small example of that".

The Guardian

It's a small example of path-dependence, really.

The New Yorker

"Families are a small example of big government.

The Guardian - Music

A small example of this is Terminal 5 at Heathrow.

Independent

That's a small example of the diversity of thought Foyle was getting at.

The New York Times - Sports

"That was a small example of how love can bring people together," he says, beaming.

The Guardian - Music

But the leaf is also a small example of India's fiscal fragmentation.

The Economist

I gathered up a small example of each and brought them home to my New York apartment.

The New York Times

"It's a small example of communities often at war with each other that get along just fine," he said.

The Guardian

"So the management of that is a small example of the crowd issues that we may have to deal with".

The New York Times

What matters is that this was but a small example of the changed atmosphere at City Hall.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a small example of" to introduce a specific instance that clarifies a broader concept or trend for your audience. This helps to make abstract ideas more concrete and understandable.

Common error

Avoid beginning multiple consecutive sentences or paragraphs with "a small example of". This can make your writing repetitive. Instead, vary your sentence structure by using alternative phrases like "for instance", "to illustrate", or "consider the case of".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small example of" functions as an introductory phrase used to preface an instance that illustrates a broader point or concept. As Ludwig highlights, it's a common construction found in various types of writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small example of" is a versatile phrase used to introduce an instance that illustrates a broader concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and appropriate for use in a variety of writing contexts, from formal reports to news articles. While it's a valuable tool for clarifying ideas, avoid overusing it to prevent your writing from becoming repetitive. Instead, consider alternative phrases like "for instance" or "to illustrate". Its frequent appearance in sources like The New York Times, The Guardian and The Economist confirms its place in standard English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor instance of

Replaces "example" with "instance", slightly shifting the focus to a specific occurrence.

a limited demonstration of

Substitutes "example" with "demonstration", suggesting a showcasing or proof-of-concept aspect.

a slight illustration of

Uses "illustration" instead of "example", implying a visual or descriptive representation.

a microcosm of

This implies that the example is a miniature representation of a larger system or trend.

a hint of

Indicates that the example only offers a suggestive or indirect indication.

a taste of

Conveys that the example is a brief or partial experience of something.

an isolated case of

Emphasizes the singularity and potential atypicality of the example.

a single instance of

Highlights that the example is one particular occurrence among many.

a snapshot of

Suggests the example provides an abridged or momentary view.

a token of

This implies the example serves as a symbolic or representative gesture.

FAQs

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

You can use "a small example of" to introduce a specific instance that clarifies a broader concept or trend, for instance: "The recent policy change is "a small example of" the government's commitment to reform".

What phrases are similar to "a small example of"?

Similar phrases include "a minor instance of", "a slight illustration of", or "a microcosm of", each with slightly different connotations.

When is it appropriate to use "a small example of" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to introduce a specific, limited instance to illustrate a broader point or trend. Be mindful not to overuse it, as it can make your writing sound repetitive.

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

"A small example of" introduces a specific instance without implying that it's representative. In contrast, "a typical example of" suggests that the instance is representative of a broader category or pattern.