actual instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "actual instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific occurrence or example of something in a real-world context. Example: "In this study, we will analyze an actual instance of consumer behavior during a recession."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Mary Cheh, the council member who has conducted the hearings, said that just one of the five children's jobs appeared to have been an actual instance of nepotism.

The New York Times

Objects of perception are causally efficacious particulars (svalakṣaṇa), actual instance of things in the world with temporal and spatial location.

SEP

This is our understanding of the sign/dynamic object relationship at some actual instance in the chain of signs.

SEP

The character of your experience is explained by an actual instance of whiteness manifesting itself in experience.

SEP

The character of one's experience is explained by an actual instance of whiteness manifesting itself in experience.

SEP

According to the calculated results and the actual instance of roadside, it brings forward the recommended width of roadside clear zone.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

In fact, though you're unlikely to hear about it on Fox News, Republicans themselves regularly engage in actual instances of voter fraud.

The Guardian - Opinion

His somewhat sophistical case was that the journal should confine itself to identifying actual instances of censorship rather than discussing allegations of bias in a "free" country.

The Guardian - Books

Aside from the newspaper stunts every leap year, there don't seem to be many actual instances of this happening in popular culture.

The Guardian - Books

A commission spokesperson said that the bloc had known about the risk of defeat devices in 2014, but "was not aware of any actual instances of fraud.

The Guardian

The Oxford Companion to Food, exploring the matter, points out that this myth is nearly universal but that actual instances are "virtually nonexistent".

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "actual instance" when you want to emphasize that something is a real, concrete example, not just a theoretical possibility.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "actual instance" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "real example" or "specific case" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "actual instance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific, real-world example or occurrence. As Ludwig highlights, this construction emphasizes that the example is not theoretical but based on reality.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "actual instance" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a real and specific occurrence or example. Ludwig's analysis demonstrates its usage across various contexts, including science, news, and encyclopedias, although it is less frequent in informal settings. While it can sometimes sound overly formal, it provides a clear emphasis on the reality and tangibility of an event. When aiming for less formality, consider alternatives such as "real example" or "specific case". As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase serves to add weight and credibility to claims by illustrating them with concrete evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

real occurrence

Focuses on the reality of the event instead of its classification as an instance.

genuine example

Emphasizes the authenticity of the example over its mere existence.

concrete illustration

Highlights the tangible and illustrative nature of the occurrence.

specific case

Focuses on the specificity and particularity of the event.

factual demonstration

Highlights the provable and evidence-based nature of the instance.

tangible manifestation

Focuses on the physical or observable expression of something.

verifiable situation

Emphasizes the ability to confirm or validate the occurrence.

practical application

Focuses on the real-world use or implementation of something.

empirical observation

Highlights the reliance on observation and experience for evidence.

demonstrated event

Emphasizes that the event has been shown or proven to occur.

FAQs

How can I use "actual instance" in a sentence?

Use "actual instance" to highlight a real occurrence or example, as in, "This research examines an actual instance of a company successfully implementing sustainable practices."

What is a good alternative to "actual instance"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "real example", "specific case", or "genuine occurrence".

Is it more appropriate to say "actual instance" or "real instance"?

"Actual instance" and "real instance" are very similar. "Actual instance" might be preferred in more formal or scientific writing, while "real instance" is suitable in a wider range of contexts.

When should I use "actual instance" over other similar phrases?

Use "actual instance" when you specifically want to emphasize that something isn't hypothetical or theoretical. For instance, in a legal argument, citing an "actual instance" carries more weight than referring to a possible scenario.