an instance when

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an instance when" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific occurrence or example of a situation. Example: "I can recall an instance when we successfully completed the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Define: This is an instance when I define for them.

Stanford University

She cited an instance when she interviewed Dan Quayle during the 1992 presidential campaign.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Winkeljohn recounted an instance when a new sparring partner landed some blows on an unprepared Jones.

The New York Times - Sports

He recalled an instance when Denver's two catchers got hurt and Houk stepped in.

The New York Times - Sports

But I rarely come across an instance when Rdio can't supply a song I'm looking for.

The New York Times

Honestly, I can't think of an instance when censorship is acceptable.

The New Yorker

One was: "Please share an example of an instance when you feel creative thought really did matter".

The New York Times

At a forum this week, the candidates struggled to name an instance when they had disagreed with the union.

The New York Times

"He's willing to fight for me if there's an instance when a theater isn't being cooperative," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

In 2007, one pilot recounted an instance when the navigational equipment on his Boeing 737 had failed after takeoff.

The New York Times

In his campaign for civility, perhaps Mayor Giuliani is overlooking obvious justification for an instance when being uncivil is appropriate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your sentence structure by occasionally using alternatives like "a case where" or "a situation in which" to avoid monotony and enhance readability.

Common error

While "an instance when" is generally acceptable, excessive use can make writing sound repetitive. Try replacing it with more concise phrases or rephrasing the sentence to improve flow and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an instance when" functions as a relative clause introducing a specific example or occurrence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to provide context by pointing to a particular event or situation. The examples show how this phrase is used to set the stage for a narrative or provide supporting evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an instance when" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to introduce specific examples or situations. As Ludwig AI points out, it's valuable for providing context and supporting arguments. While frequently found in news and academic writing, it maintains a neutral to formal tone. For variety, consider using alternatives like "a case where" or "a situation in which" to avoid repetition and enhance your writing's sophistication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a case where

Focuses on a specific occurrence but uses 'case' instead of 'instance'.

a situation in which

Emphasizes the circumstances surrounding an event.

an occasion when

Highlights the timing or opportunity of an event.

a time when

Specifically refers to a point in time when something happened.

a moment that

Focuses on a brief period or specific point in time.

an event where

Highlights the occurrence as a notable happening.

an example of when

Illustrates the concept with a specific illustration.

a circumstance under which

Indicates the conditions that affect an event.

a scenario where

Presents a hypothetical or real situation.

an incident in which

Focuses on a particular event, often with negative connotations.

FAQs

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

You can use "an instance when" to introduce a specific example or situation. For example, "I recall "an instance when" the team collaborated effectively to solve a complex problem."

What are some alternatives to "an instance when"?

Alternatives include "a case where", "a situation in which", or "a time when". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "an instance when" or "in a case where"?

Both "an instance when" and "in a case where" are grammatically correct, but "an instance when" is more direct. Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and flow of your writing.

Can "an instance when" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "an instance when" is suitable for formal writing, but consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "a situation in which" for a more polished tone.