an outstanding example

USAGE SUMMARY

"an outstanding example" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a way to describe something or someone that is an especially strong example or one that stands out from the others. For example, "Lillian is an outstanding example of a successful entrepreneur, having started her own business at the age of 21."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nabokov's Humbert Humbert in Lolita is an outstanding example.

The Guardian - Books

Each is considered an outstanding example of each artist's work.

The New York Times - Arts

Amer Palace is an outstanding example of Rajput architecture.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The retina is an outstanding example of modular circuit design.

Progress in Brain Research

In the 20th century the vocabulary of science and technology was an outstanding example.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Netherlands is an outstanding example of a kinder more caring society.

The New York Times

However, yellow fever is an outstanding example of a completely preventable disease.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The international postal system is in itself an outstanding example of worldwide organization and mutual trust.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Roberts particularly objected to award wording that described Jackson as an "outstanding example" for American youth.

The Washington Post

The New York Times' approach is an outstanding example of how to plan for CRM.

Harvard Business Review

We have seen an outstanding example for that in London in recent days.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an outstanding example" when you want to highlight something as particularly excellent or representative of a broader category. Ensure that the context clearly establishes what makes the example superior or noteworthy.

Common error

Avoid using "an outstanding example" in generic or vague statements. Always provide specific details or context to justify why the example is considered outstanding. For instance, instead of saying "Technology is an outstanding example of progress", specify a particular technological advancement and explain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an outstanding example" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, highlighting it as a particularly noteworthy or excellent instance. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and widely used. The phrase serves to emphasize the quality or representativeness of the subject it modifies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

24%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

6%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an outstanding example" is a phrase used to highlight something as particularly excellent or representative. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use across various contexts. The phrase is commonly found in news articles, encyclopedias, and scientific publications, signaling its appropriateness for formal and neutral registers. To use it effectively, ensure that the context clearly establishes what makes the example superior or noteworthy, and avoid using it in overly general or vague statements. Alternatives such as "a prime illustration" or "a notable instance" can provide variety while maintaining a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prime illustration

Replaces "example" with "illustration" and uses "prime" to indicate high quality.

a notable instance

Substitutes "outstanding" with "notable" to suggest something worthy of attention.

a textbook case

Implies the example is so good it could be used for teaching.

a shining model

Replaces "example" with "model" and uses "shining" to emphasize excellence.

an exceptional demonstration

Focuses on the act of demonstrating something in an exceptional way, changes "example" with "demonstration".

a first-rate specimen

Emphasizes the quality of the example by calling it "first-rate" and changes the word "example" with "specimen".

an exemplar of

Uses a more formal term, "exemplar", to denote a perfect example.

a top-tier illustration

Highlights the superior quality by using "top-tier" and substitutes "example" with "illustration".

a classic representation

Indicates that the example is a well-known and typical representation of something.

a paradigm case

Uses "paradigm" to indicate that the example serves as a standard or pattern.

FAQs

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

Use "an outstanding example" to spotlight a specific instance that exemplifies excellence or a key characteristic. For instance, "The Mona Lisa is "an outstanding example" of Renaissance art", showcasing its iconic status.

What are some alternatives to "an outstanding example"?

You can use alternatives such as "a prime illustration", "a notable instance", or "a textbook case" to convey a similar meaning while varying your vocabulary.

What makes something "an outstanding example" as opposed to just a good example?

The term "an outstanding example" implies that the instance is not just good, but exceptionally so, setting a high standard or benchmark. It suggests superior quality, relevance, or impact compared to typical examples.

Is it appropriate to use "an outstanding example" in formal writing?

Yes, "an outstanding example" is suitable for formal writing. Its use signifies a high level of clarity and emphasis, making it appropriate for academic, professional, and other formal contexts. However, ensure the context justifies the strong emphasis.