an isolated example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an isolated example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a single instance that stands alone and may not represent a broader trend or pattern. Example: "While the study presents an isolated example, it does not account for the larger context of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

This was not an isolated example".

The Guardian - Sport

"I don't believe that this case is an isolated example".

The New York Times

If only this were an isolated example, but it isn't.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is not an isolated example," he said.

The Guardian

Palin was not an isolated example of McCain's fecklessness.

The New York Times - Books

"Flint wasn't an isolated example," said Dick Durbin, a Democrat senator.

The Guardian

He citied [Martinez] as an isolated example of one man, that it was not endemic.

The Guardian

If what Zuckerberg is doing were an isolated example, it wouldn't matter much for over-all tax revenues.

The New Yorker

The worst of it is that Blackwall Reach is not an isolated example, but is all too typical.

The Guardian - Arts

Embraer is an isolated example of a big high-tech exporter.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Yet this remains an isolated example, as most often decision-makers in Burkina Faso have no desire to carry out pilot projects to inform their decisions.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an isolated example" to indicate that a particular case or instance should not be generalized or taken as representative of a broader trend.

Common error

Avoid drawing broad conclusions based solely on "an isolated example". Always consider the larger context and look for corroborating evidence before making generalizations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an isolated example" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It is used to specify that a particular instance is not representative of a larger trend or pattern. As Ludwig AI reports, it is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an isolated example" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for written English to describe a singular instance that should not be generalized. It appears most often in news and media contexts. To avoid misinterpretation, it's advisable to use this phrase carefully. Consider alternatives like "a unique instance" or "a rare occurrence" to add nuance. Remember, Ludwig's analysis underscores the importance of avoiding broad generalizations from such instances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique instance

Emphasizes the singularity and distinctiveness of the occurrence.

a rare occurrence

Highlights the infrequency and uncommon nature of the event.

a one-off case

Suggests that the situation is unlikely to be repeated.

an exceptional case

Implies that the example deviates from the norm in a positive way.

a singular event

Focuses on the event's uniqueness and lack of precedent.

an uncommon situation

Indicates the unusual character of the circumstances.

a freak incident

Suggests an unexpected and improbable occurrence.

an anomaly

Highlights the deviation from the expected pattern or trend.

a special circumstance

Implies that the situation is distinct and requires individual consideration.

a peculiar instance

Emphasizes the odd or strange nature of the example.

FAQs

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

You can use "an isolated example" to highlight that a specific instance is not representative of a general trend. For instance, "While this success story is encouraging, it remains "an isolated example" and doesn't guarantee widespread success".

What are some alternatives to saying "an isolated example"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a unique instance", "a rare occurrence", or "a one-off case" instead of "an isolated example".

Is it correct to say "an isolate example" instead of "an isolated example"?

No, the correct phrasing is "an isolated example". The word "isolated" implies something that is standing alone or occurring uniquely, while "isolate" is a verb meaning to set apart.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an isolated example" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that a particular instance is not typical or representative, and should not be used to make broad generalizations. It suggests that the situation is unique and not part of a larger pattern.