a stark example

USAGE SUMMARY

'a stark example' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used in comparison with other examples to express the strength or severity of something. For example, "The closing of the local library is a stark example of the effects of budget cuts in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Greece provides a stark example.

The Economist

The housing market is a stark example.

Harvard Business Review

The field of elementary education provides a stark example.

Harvard University

Bhutan is a stark example of these problems.

Columbia University

It was a stark example of how conflicted L.S.U.

The New York Times - Sports

But Republicans pointed to the nomination as a stark example of political cronyism.

The New York Times

Angola provides a stark example of how a resource boom has benefitted a privileged few.

The Guardian

A stark example of the year's trend can be found in California.

The New York Times

Chile is a stark example of the debate over water crises across the globe.

The New York Times

A stark example: the role played by physicians as part of the Holocaust and genocide.

The New York Times

Those were the students Hall helped bring in - a stark example of how times have changed.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Incorporate "a stark example" when you want to underscore the gravity of a situation, making it memorable for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a stark example" in contexts that are not serious or negative. The phrase implies a strong contrast or severity, so use it judiciously.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stark example" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a specific case or instance intended to clearly and powerfully illustrate a particular point, often highlighting negative consequences or severity. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is indeed correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

22%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A stark example" is a commonly used phrase that serves to introduce a powerful and clear illustration, often with negative connotations. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and used across a variety of contexts, predominantly in news, academic, and scientific domains. Its purpose is to emphasize the significance or severity of a situation through a concrete, memorable example. While versatile, it is most effectively employed when the situation warrants a strong, often negative, emphasis. Related phrases offer alternative ways to highlight illustrative instances, allowing for nuanced communication. When using the phrase, it's best practice to ensure the context justifies the strong implication of severity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear illustration

Focuses on the illustrative aspect, rather than the severity.

a telling instance

Emphasizes the revealing nature of the example.

a prime demonstration

Highlights the demonstrative aspect, showing something in action.

a classic case

Suggests a well-known or typical instance of something.

a vivid depiction

Focuses on creating a clear and impactful mental image.

a powerful reminder

Emphasizes the act of remembering something important.

a significant indication

Highlights the importance or consequence of the example.

an eye-opening experience

Implies a revelation or a new understanding.

a harsh lesson

Focuses on the negative or painful aspect of learning.

a cautionary tale

Suggests a story or example meant to warn against certain actions.

FAQs

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

Use "a stark example" to introduce an illustrative case that highlights a situation's severity or negative consequences. For instance, "The company's bankruptcy is "a stark example" of mismanagement".

What are some alternatives to "a stark example"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a clear illustration", "a telling instance", or "a prime demonstration", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "a stark example"?

No, "a stark example" is most appropriate when emphasizing severity, negativity, or a strong contrast. It may not fit contexts that are neutral or positive.

What makes "a stark example" different from a regular example?

"A stark example" implies a clear, powerful, and often negative illustration. It highlights a situation's gravity more intensely than a simple "example" would.