an illustrative example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an illustrative example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to provide a specific instance that clarifies or explains a concept or idea. Example: "To better understand the theory, let me provide an illustrative example from real life."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Crispin is an illustrative example.

The Guardian - Books

Yimby provides an illustrative example.

The Guardian

Finally, an illustrative example is provided.

Cold Regions Science and Technology

Finally, an illustrative example is included.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Numerical results are given for an illustrative example.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

The paper uses a moving object as an illustrative example.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Here Wodeham offers an illustrative example.

SEP

Section 4 contains an illustrative example.

Boundary Value Problems

Figure 2 shows an illustrative example.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Now, we give an illustrative example.

Boundary Value Problems

Then an illustrative example is provided.

Advances in Difference Equations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an illustrative example", ensure it directly and clearly supports the point you're making. Avoid examples that are tangential or confusing.

Common error

Avoid using too many illustrative examples in a single piece of writing. While helpful, excessive examples can make your text feel repetitive and dilute your core message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an illustrative example" functions as a transitional phrase, signaling the introduction of a specific case to clarify a general statement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use, highlighting its role in enhancing understanding through concrete instances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

57%

News & Media

21%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an illustrative example" is a versatile phrase used to introduce specific instances that clarify broader concepts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly employed across various domains, including science, news, and formal business communications. It serves the primary function of enhancing understanding by providing tangible, real-world examples. When using this phrase, it's best to ensure the example is directly relevant and supports your argument without causing confusion. Alternatives such as "a telling example" or "a clarifying example" can add nuance to your writing. Remember, while examples are valuable, overuse can dilute your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a good example

A general way to describe an example that effectively illustrates a point.

a clarifying example

Highlights the role of the example in making something easier to understand.

a representative example

Suggests the example is typical and reflects a broader pattern.

a suitable example

Suggests the example is appropriate for the purpose of illustration.

a typical example

This option focuses on how common this example is.

a prime example

Indicates the example is of the highest quality or most suitable for illustrating a point.

a telling example

Emphasizes the revealing or significant nature of the example.

a notable example

Highlights that the example is worthy of attention or is significant.

a striking example

Focuses on the noticeable or impressive nature of the example.

a classic example

Implies the example is well-known and serves as a standard illustration.

FAQs

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

You can use "an illustrative example" to introduce a specific instance that helps clarify a concept. For instance, "To understand this economic principle, consider "an illustrative example" from the stock market".

What are some alternatives to using "an illustrative example"?

Instead of "an illustrative example", you could use phrases like "a telling example", "a clarifying example", or "a representative example" to introduce a specific instance.

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

It's appropriate to use "an illustrative example" when you need to provide a concrete instance to help your audience understand a more abstract concept or idea. It's particularly useful in explanations and analyses.

What makes "an illustrative example" effective?

An effective "illustrative example" is relevant, clear, and directly supports the point you are trying to make. It should simplify understanding, not complicate it, and should be drawn from a source or situation that is credible and relatable.