an exceptional instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an exceptional instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific case or example that stands out due to its uniqueness or rarity. Example: "This report highlights an exceptional instance of teamwork that led to the project's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But we are worried that your article, by focusing on such an exceptional instance of fiscal irresponsibility without also discussing the vital importance of services to the developmentally disabled, could feed into the frenzy to cut state and federal funds for them.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"This was an exceptional case.

The Guardian

This is an exceptional example.

Harvard Business Review

This was an exceptional murderer and an exceptional case.

The Guardian

Roth is an exceptional case.

Forbes

"This is an exceptional case.

TechCrunch

Bri1-301 is an exceptional case.

BMC Plant Biology

Weaving together contemporary and critical political theory with political ethnography, Banu Bargu analyzes the death fast struggle as an exemplary though not exceptional instance of self-destructive practices that are a consequence of, retort to, and refusal of the increasingly biopolitical forms of sovereign power deployed around the globe.

Columbia University

In another exceptional instance, immunity to the blood-borne microfilarial stage of B. malayi appears to be mediated by Th1 cells and inhibited by IL-10 [ 46].

Current Opinion in Immunology

Therefore, the exceptional instances where a stable gene order is conserved, even for a few gene pairs, implies strong selective pressure that should be reflected in high levels of co-expression of essential products such as one sees, for instance, in the exemplary case of ribosomal proteins.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Felix charts his life through exceptional instances of heartache, beginning with an early girlfriend who fell for another boy while Felix was holding her hand at the movies.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an exceptional instance," ensure that the surrounding text clarifies why the instance is considered exceptional. Provide specific details that distinguish it from typical examples, reinforcing its rarity and significance.

Common error

Avoid using "an exceptional instance" to describe ordinary situations. This phrase should be reserved for genuinely rare or unique cases. Overusing it dilutes its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an exceptional instance" functions as a noun phrase, where "exceptional" modifies the noun "instance". Ludwig AI shows that this phrase is used to single out a particular case or event that is notably different or unusual.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an exceptional instance" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to emphasize the rarity or uniqueness of a specific case. Ludwig AI underlines this correctness. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating a formal to neutral register. While not exceedingly frequent, its usage is clear and effective for highlighting noteworthy deviations from the norm. Remember to reserve this phrase for genuinely rare or unique situations to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rare occurrence

Emphasizes the infrequency of the event.

an uncommon case

Highlights the unusual nature of the situation.

an isolated incident

Stresses the singularity and lack of repetition.

a remarkable example

Focuses on the noteworthy quality of the illustration.

a singular event

Underscores the uniqueness of the happening.

an atypical situation

Indicates a deviation from the norm.

an extraordinary circumstance

Highlights the unusual conditions surrounding the event.

an unprecedented situation

Implies that there is no prior occurrence of this nature.

a distinctive occurrence

Emphasizes the unique character of the event.

an infrequent event

Highlights that the event is rare and does not happen often.

FAQs

How can I use "an exceptional instance" in a sentence?

Use "an exceptional instance" to highlight a case that stands out due to its rarity or unique qualities. For example, "This report provides an exceptional instance of how collaboration can drive innovation."

What are some alternatives to "an exceptional instance"?

Alternatives include "a rare occurrence", "an uncommon case", or "a remarkable example". The best choice depends on the specific context and what aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it redundant to say "very exceptional instance"?

Yes, using "very" with "exceptional" is generally redundant. "Exceptional" already implies something out of the ordinary. You can, however, provide more details to emphasize its distinctiveness.

What's the difference between "an exceptional instance" and "an exemplary instance"?

"An exceptional instance" refers to something rare or unusual, while "an exemplary instance" refers to something that serves as a perfect example or model. Consider the nuance of the situation.