an example of which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an example of which" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used in the middle of a sentence to refer to something previously mentioned. For example, "The country has many mountain ranges, an example of which is the Rocky Mountains."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We begin with the numbers, an example of which is shown below: A hypothetical snippet.

The Guardian

A considerable wealth of bronze and gold is present, an example of which is the great Clare gold hoard.

Britannica

The measurements are exported in a text file, an example of which is provided (data provided on www.cellprofiler.org/imagingflowcytometry).org/imagingflowcytometry

Nature

"Crucify" is not a serviceable synonym for "make an example of," which is what Armendariz, who subsequently apologized and resigned, apparently meant by it.

The New Yorker

Elsewhere the piece speculates that humans and Neanderthals share a common ancestor (an example of which was possibly found in Europe) from roughly 400,000 years ago.

The New Yorker

L'Enclume is French for the anvil, an example of which sits in the dining room of what was once the village forge.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

University researchers designed many of the electronic components in the detector, including the circuit boards, an example of which is on display in the lobby of Pupin Hall.

Columbia University

The type of smectic phase can be determined by observing 2D-SAXS patterns of a shear-aligned sample, an example of which is given in Fig. 2e.

Nature

A standing wave in a Kundt's tube consists of a complex series of small cell oscillations, an example of which is illustrated in Figure 7.

Britannica

The ratio of the width to the height of a rectangle is called an aspect ratio, an example of which is the golden ratio of classical architecture.

Britannica

It is further hypothesized that the use of a computerized mechanical manipulative device may resolve such fixations, an example of which is radiographically demonstrable cervical hypolordosis.

Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an example of which" to smoothly integrate examples within complex sentences, avoiding abrupt shifts in tone or subject matter. This maintains a consistent flow of information for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "an example of which" in very simple sentences. This phrase is best suited for more complex constructions where a relative clause adds clarity or detail. In simpler cases, a direct example is more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an example of which" functions as a relative clause that introduces an instance or illustration related to a previously mentioned noun or idea. As Ludwig AI clarifies, this construction smoothly integrates examples into more complex sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an example of which" is a frequently used phrase that serves to introduce an illustrative instance related to a preceding statement. As Ludwig AI indicates, it functions as a relative clause, enhancing clarity in complex sentences. This phrase is commonly found in scientific and news contexts, demonstrating its wide acceptance across various registers. While grammatically correct, it should be used judiciously, primarily in complex sentence structures. Top authoritative sources such as BBC, Britannica, and Nature frequently employ this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a case in point being

Replaces "an example of which" with a phrase that directly introduces a specific instance or illustration.

as an illustration

Offers a more concise way to introduce an example.

for instance

Provides a common and straightforward way to give an example.

to illustrate

Introduces an example with a clear and direct purpose.

one such case is

Highlights that the example is one of many possible instances.

a notable instance being

Emphasizes the significance or relevance of the example.

consider the case of

Invites the reader to focus on a specific example for better understanding.

take for example

Presents a more informal way to introduce an example.

by way of example

Offers a slightly more formal way to introduce an illustration.

this is exemplified by

Shows that the prior statement will be clarified by the example.

FAQs

How can I use "an example of which" in a sentence?

The phrase "an example of which" is used to introduce an example related to something previously mentioned. For instance, "The study explored several ecological relationships, an example of which was the symbiosis between clownfish and sea anemones."

What are some alternatives to "an example of which"?

Alternatives include "for example", "for instance", or "such as". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to use "an example of which" or a simpler phrase like "for example"?

The choice depends on the complexity of the sentence and the desired tone. "An example of which" is suitable for complex sentences where a relative clause is appropriate, while simpler phrases like "for example" are better for more straightforward statements.

Can "an example of which" be used at the beginning of a sentence?

No, "an example of which" typically appears in the middle of a sentence, following the element it is providing an example for. Starting a sentence with this phrase is grammatically incorrect.