an instance of this is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an instance of this is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a specific example that illustrates a point or concept previously mentioned. Example: "The theory of relativity has many applications; an instance of this is its use in GPS technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

An instance of this is the mutation of the Java probe with the MsgNull, which results in the properties of the architecture model being updated with null values in tests conducted during the analysis stage.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

An instance of this is the introduction of futures contract for natural gas in the 1990 by the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX), which is made possible by the creation of an efficient way to coordinate multiple players in the gas industry by delivering accurate up-to-date information on the price of natural gas, called "hub pricing".

Chemistry Central Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A classic instance of this is the assertion, to become a cornerstone of logical empiricism, that relativity theory had shown the untenability of any "philosophy of the synthetic a priori", despite the fact that early works on relativity theory by both Reichenbach and Carnap were written from within that broad perspective.

SEP

A striking instance of this is provided by the proposition that a material thing cannot be in two places at once.

SEP

A clear instance of this is the ancient Greek writer Herodotus, the so-called "father of history".

Encyclopedia Britannica

A particular instance of this is the English hammer-beam roof, which was a kind of corbeled truss that could span quite long distances.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A striking instance of this is the minimal role played by judgment and damnation in modern NDEs; unlike the medieval cases, the modern life-review tends to be therapeutic rather than judgmental in emphasis.

SEP

A prominent instance of this is the torture scene to the tune of "Stuck in the Middle with You".

Wikipedia

A well-known instance of this is the so-called matching behavior [27].

Plosone

A well studied instance of this is the so called Zipf law [11] which originally referred to the frequency with which words are used in a specific language.

Plosone

Arguably the most famous instance of this is when a gentleman called CavemanDJC ran a game called Tomba! 2, which is about a feral child killing pigs.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an instance of this is" when you want to clearly signal that you are providing a specific example to support a more general statement you have just made. This phrase is useful in academic writing, presentations, or any context where clarity and logical flow are important.

Common error

Avoid using "an instance of this is" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted in such settings. Simpler alternatives like "for example" or "like" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an instance of this is" functions as a transitional phrase, specifically used to introduce an example that illustrates a previously mentioned concept or statement. According to Ludwig, it's a grammatically correct way to provide clarification and support an argument.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

News & Media

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an instance of this is" serves as a transitional phrase used to introduce examples, mainly in formal contexts such as scientific papers and encyclopedias. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and while the phrase effectively signals the introduction of an example, simpler alternatives like "for example" may be more appropriate in informal settings. Be mindful of the formal tone, as overuse can make writing appear stilted. The usage is more common in Science-related articles, but other sources also use this expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a case in point is

Replaces "an instance of this is" with a more concise and direct expression.

a prime example of this is

Adds emphasis to the example being introduced.

a typical example of this is

Suggests that the example is representative of a larger trend.

consider for example

Introduces an example for consideration, shifting the focus slightly.

to illustrate this

Offers a more direct and concise way to introduce an illustration.

as an illustration

Similar to "to illustrate this", but uses a prepositional phrase.

for instance

A shorter and more common way to introduce an example.

take for example

Emphasizes the act of selecting a specific example.

by way of example

A more formal and elaborate way to introduce an example.

this is exemplified by

Highlights that something is being shown or illustrated by the following example.

FAQs

How can I use "an instance of this is" in a sentence?

Use "an instance of this is" to introduce a specific example that supports a general statement. For example, "Many technological advancements have improved communication; "an instance of this is" the widespread use of smartphones".

What are some alternatives to "an instance of this is"?

You can use alternatives like "for example", "for instance", or "a case in point is" to introduce an example.

When is it appropriate to use "an instance of this is"?

It's appropriate to use "an instance of this is" in formal writing or speech where you want to clearly signal that you are providing a specific example to support a general point. It's particularly useful in academic or technical contexts.

Is "an instance of this is" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "an instance of this is" can sound overly formal in everyday conversation. Simpler phrases like "for example" or "like" are generally more suitable.