an obvious example

USAGE SUMMARY

"an obvious example" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is clearly an example of something. For instance, "Spending too much time on social media is an obvious example of how our lives have changed in the last decade."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's an obvious example".

The Guardian - Sport

Take an obvious example.

The Guardian - Opinion

Environmental taxes are an obvious example.

The Economist

The military is an obvious example.

The New Yorker

Healthcare is an obvious example.

Harvard Business Review

Revenue is an obvious example.

Harvard Business Review

Dark Souls is an obvious example.

The Guardian - Tech

Simon Grayson is an obvious example.

The Guardian - Sport

The Kabul Bank scandal was an obvious example.

The Guardian

Here's an obvious example to support my argument.

The Guardian - Books

The work capability assessment (WCA) is an obvious example.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an obvious example", ensure that the example directly and clearly supports the point you are making, avoiding any ambiguity or potential misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "an obvious example" repeatedly in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using alternative phrases like "a clear instance" or "a prime illustration" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an obvious example" functions as an appositive, introducing a specific instance that clearly illustrates a general statement. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to provide concrete support and clarification in a sentence. Examples from various sources showcase its role in making concepts more accessible.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an obvious example" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase designed to introduce a readily understandable instance that supports a broader point. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and utility across diverse contexts. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for various forms of communication, particularly in news, business, and scientific domains. To avoid redundancy, consider employing alternatives like "a clear instance" or "a prime illustration". By understanding its function and register, writers can effectively use "an obvious example" to enhance clarity and persuasiveness in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear instance

Replaces "obvious example" with a more generic term, emphasizing clarity. Its semantic similarity is high because both highlight an illustrative instance.

a prime illustration

Substitutes "obvious example" with a stronger focus on the illustrative nature. Its semantic similarity is high because both are related to illustration for example.

a textbook case

Indicates an example that perfectly fits a specific pattern or definition. Its semantic similarity is high, because both can introduce something fitting something very well.

a telling illustration

Highlights that the example reveals something significant or important. Its semantic similarity is quite similar, both provide a kind of illustration.

a notable case

Emphasizes the example's importance or worthiness of attention. The semantic similarity is good because it is similar to a case worth noting.

a striking instance

Indicates that the example is particularly noticeable or remarkable. Semantic similarity is high because its like another way of expressing an example.

a classic demonstration

Suggests a well-known and representative example of a concept or principle. The semantic similarity is decent, both can be a demostration.

a typical scenario

Indicates an example that is representative of a common situation. It's semantic similarity is medium because it introduces a scenario in question.

a concrete illustration

Focuses on the tangible and specific nature of the example. Its semantic similarity is high because both provide a kind of illustration that can be observed or proven.

a known instance

Highlights that the example is recognized or acknowledged. Its semantic similarity is medium because it introduces a specific instance or case of something.

FAQs

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

Use "an obvious example" to introduce a well-known or easily understood illustration that supports your point. For example, "The overuse of social media is "an obvious example" of modern addiction".

What are some alternatives to "an obvious example"?

You can use alternatives such as "a clear instance", "a prime illustration", or "a textbook case" to vary your language.

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

It is appropriate to use "an obvious example" when you want to introduce an illustration that is widely recognized and easily understood by your audience, making your argument clearer and more persuasive.

What should I avoid when using "an obvious example"?

Avoid overusing the phrase and ensure that the example directly and clearly supports the point you are making. Using alternatives like "a notable case" or "a striking instance" can prevent repetition and maintain reader engagement.