an integral specimen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an integral specimen" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to emphasize that a specimen is essential or crucial to a particular study, collection, or analysis. Example: "The paleontologist described the fossil as an integral specimen that provided key insights into the species' evolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This behaviour is characteristic of brittle materials: the transition from an integral specimen to a broken one occurs almost instantaneously and with little or no warning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Small specimen test technology (SSTT) has long been an integral part of fusion materials development.

Journal of Nuclear Materials

The design and fabrication of specimens by use of microfabrication methods are an integral part of the technique because they are crucial for testing to be successful.

Thin Solid Films

Clearwire's spectrum is an integral component.

The New York Times

"Big specimens or small — I'm happy to help capture the photographic images you need". That is the message from UC alum and now UCMP volunteer Dave Strauss, who happily has become an integral part of our community.

University of California, Berkeley

It's an integral focal point.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Death was an integral part of life.

The Guardian

Dave is an integral part of that".

The New York Times - Magazine

Architecture is an integral part of that.

The New York Times - Arts

Crimea is an integral part of Ukraine".

BBC

"The caddie can play an integral part.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specimen, follow 'an integral specimen' with a 'that' clause to further specify its important functions or characteristics to readers.

Common error

Avoid using “an integral specimen” when referring to routine or easily replaceable samples. Reserve this phrase for specimens that offer unique insights or are crucial for a study's success.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an integral specimen" functions as a noun phrase, where "integral" modifies the noun "specimen". It describes a particular specimen that is essential or fundamentally important within a specific context. This assessment aligns with Ludwig's analysis.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an integral specimen" is a phrase used to describe a specimen that is fundamentally important or essential within a given context. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use, particularly in formal or scientific writing. While its frequency is rare, it serves to highlight the significance and indispensability of the specimen. Related phrases, such as "a crucial sample" or "an essential example", offer alternatives for expressing similar ideas. When using the phrase, ensure it's reserved for specimens truly vital to the study or analysis, and not overused in less critical contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a crucial sample

Emphasizes the importance of the sample to the analysis or study.

an essential example

Highlights the necessity of the example for understanding a concept.

a vital subject

Focuses on the subject's importance to the investigation or experiment.

a key element of the specimen

Indicates that the element is fundamentally important within the specimen.

a fundamental part of the specimen

Similar to 'key element' but stresses the foundational nature.

a significant component of the specimen

Highlights the importance of the component to the specimen's overall structure or function.

an indispensable exhibit

Stresses that the exhibit cannot be done without.

a requisite piece

Focuses on the necessary nature of the piece for a set or collection.

a critical sample

Refers to a sample of highest importance.

an important instance

Highlights a significant occurrence of a certain specimen.

FAQs

How can I use "an integral specimen" in a sentence?

You can use "an integral specimen" to describe a sample that is essential for understanding a broader phenomenon, such as, "The fossil was "an integral specimen" for understanding the evolution of early mammals".

What are some alternatives to "an integral specimen"?

Alternatives include "a crucial sample", "an essential example", or "a vital subject", depending on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

What makes "an integral specimen" different from just "a specimen"?

"An integral specimen" highlights that the specimen is not just any example but is fundamentally important and necessary for a particular analysis, study, or understanding. It is indispensable, unlike a regular specimen that might be replaceable.

Is it appropriate to use "an integral specimen" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "an integral specimen" is more suited for formal, scientific, or technical writing. In informal contexts, simpler terms like "key sample" or "important example" might be more appropriate.