an extreme example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extreme example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when illustrating a point or concept by providing a situation that is significantly more intense or severe than typical cases. Example: "To understand the consequences of climate change, consider an extreme example: the complete melting of the polar ice caps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Russia is an extreme example.

The Economist

Consider an extreme example: suicide.

The New Yorker

Kansas is an extreme example.

The New York Times - Arts

Consider an extreme example.

Harvard Business Review

The digital tap is an extreme example.

The New York Times - Arts

Belo Monte is an extreme example.

The Economist

Oil money makes this an extreme example.

The Economist

But that is an extreme example.

The New York Times

That is, admittedly, an extreme example.

The Economist

KELLOGG offers an extreme example.

The New York Times

Is rail an extreme example?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an extreme example" to introduce situations that significantly amplify the point you're making, offering a clear and memorable illustration for your audience.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on extreme examples, as this can make your argument seem hyperbolic or unrealistic. Balance them with more typical cases to provide a well-rounded perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extreme example" functions as a discourse marker. It introduces a specific instance used to highlight and clarify a broader point, often to emphasize the potential consequences or characteristics of a phenomenon. Ludwig AI shows its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extreme example" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a specific instance to vividly illustrate a broader point. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and academic writing. While "an extreme example" serves as a powerful tool for emphasis, writers should balance it with more typical cases to maintain a realistic and nuanced argument. Alternatives like "a striking illustration" or "a prime example" can provide similar effects. This phrase is helpful in making a point more memorable and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a telling example

Suggests the example reveals significant information.

a striking illustration

Emphasizes the clarity and impact of the example.

a remarkable illustration

Stresses the surprising or impressive quality of the example.

an exceptional case

Highlights the unusual or outstanding nature of the example.

a prime example

Suggests the example is the best representative of its kind.

an illustrative instance

Focuses on the example's ability to clarify a concept.

a vivid case

Indicates the example is memorable or easily visualized.

a classic case

Indicates the example is a typical or well-known instance.

a notable instance

Emphasizes the importance or worthiness of attention of the case.

a textbook illustration

Implies the example is so clear it could be used for instructional purposes.

FAQs

How can I use "an extreme example" in a sentence?

Use "an extreme example" to introduce a scenario that greatly exaggerates a situation to highlight a specific point. For example: "To illustrate the impact of sleep deprivation, consider "an extreme example": someone going without sleep for 72 hours."

What are some alternatives to "an extreme example"?

You can use alternatives like "a striking illustration", "a prime example", or "an exceptional case" to introduce a particularly notable instance.

When is it appropriate to use "an extreme example" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize a point by presenting a scenario that significantly exaggerates the situation, making the consequences or implications more apparent.

Is "an extreme example" formal or informal?

"An extreme example" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, depending on the context and the overall tone of your piece.