a useful example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a useful example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an instance or case that serves to illustrate a point or concept effectively. Example: "In order to clarify the theory, let me provide a useful example from recent research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is also a useful example of how the artist used real people in historical and religious scenes.

The New York Times

– that was based on the visual-analogue scale used for assessing pain – represents a useful example of the adaptation of validated tools for assessing user satisfaction.

Global Health Action

Language serves as a useful example.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Pennsylvania, however, provides a useful example.

The New York Times

The Negara Masjid in Kuala Lumpur is a useful example.

The Guardian

The experience in Europe offers a useful example.

The New Yorker

It seems a useful example for the conversation we're having.

The Guardian - Books

The now-canonical A.I.G. bailout serves as a useful example.

The New York Times - Magazine

In this context, the Sioux peoples provide a useful example.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is where the Nordic countries can offer a useful example.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a useful example for Wolitzer, although not always an enticing reality.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a useful example", provide enough context so the reader understands why it's relevant and what it illustrates. Ensure the example directly supports your argument or explanation.

Common error

Avoid using overused or cliché examples. If your example is too common, it loses its impact and may not effectively illustrate your point. Look for more original and compelling examples to make your writing stand out.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a useful example" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "useful" modifies the noun "example". Ludwig AI shows this phrase is used to introduce a specific instance that clarifies or supports a general statement or concept.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a useful example" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce an instance that clarifies a point. Ludwig AI confirms it appears frequently across various sources, including News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that the example you provide adds value and directly supports your argument. Alternatives like "a helpful illustration" or "a relevant case" can add variety to your writing. Avoid generic examples to maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a helpful illustration

Swaps "example" for "illustration" and "useful" for "helpful", both near synonyms, maintaining the overall meaning of providing clarity.

a beneficial instance

Replaces "useful" with "beneficial" and "example" with "instance", emphasizing the advantageous nature of the illustration.

a relevant case

Substitutes "example" with "case" and "useful" with "relevant", focusing on the pertinence of the illustration to the matter at hand.

a valuable lesson

Transforms the phrase to highlight the instructive quality derived from the example, rather than the example itself.

a telling demonstration

Emphasizes the revealing and illustrative nature of the demonstration, diverging slightly from a simple example.

an effective model

Shifts the focus to a pattern or design that serves as a good representation, altering the context from a mere instance to a standard.

a potent illustration

Replaces "useful" with "potent", highlighting the powerful and convincing nature of the illustration.

an insightful portrayal

Transforms the phrase to denote a depiction offering deep understanding, moving away from a basic example.

a significant paradigm

Elevates the phrase to indicate a broader framework of understanding, departing from a simple, isolated example.

a clarifying case study

Reframes the example as an in-depth analysis of a particular situation, adding depth and specificity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a useful example" to introduce a specific instance that clarifies or supports a point you're making. For instance, "To illustrate the concept of supply and demand, let's consider "a useful example" from the housing market."

What are some alternatives to using "a useful example"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a helpful illustration", "a relevant case", or "a beneficial instance" to introduce or provide clarity.

Is it redundant to say "a useful example"?

While "a useful example" is not inherently redundant, ensure the example you provide truly adds value to your explanation. If the example is weak or doesn't clarify the point, it's not "a useful example".

When is it appropriate to use "a useful example" in formal writing?

It's appropriate to use "a useful example" in formal writing when you need to clarify a complex concept or support an argument with a concrete instance. Make sure the example is well-chosen and directly relevant to your point.