any example

USAGE SUMMARY

'any example' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you would like someone to provide you with an example to further illustrate a point. For example, "Can you provide me with any example of how the policy is implemented?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Could any example pose a greater challenge?

The New York Times

If history is any example, it won't.

The New York Times

"Out of the blue, uninspired by any example.

The New Yorker

If Sekules and Picket are any example, women boxers still have much to prove.

The New York Times - Books

Like any example of the genre, ours was not without its instances of farce.

The New York Times - Arts

If last Wednesday's showdown was any example, there is no simple solution.

The New York Times

If the experience of Enron is any example, the answer is a resounding no.

The New York Times

In one startling section, he weeps uncontrollably when he witnesses any example of "surpassing human achievement".

The New York Times - Books

If the past is any example, the future will be just as complaint-laden.

The New York Times

It is difficult to think of any example of this happening before.

Independent

Where has this ridiculous tendency to describe any example of more than two objects as a "curated collection" come from?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "any example", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are seeking to exemplify or illustrate. Be specific in your request to receive relevant and useful examples.

Common error

Avoid using "any example" without providing sufficient context. A vague request can lead to irrelevant or unhelpful responses. Clarify the type of example you need.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "any example" functions primarily as an interrogative determiner combined with a noun. It's used to inquire whether an instance or illustration exists to support a claim, clarify a point, or provide evidence. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where it preceeds requests for clarification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "any example" is a common and grammatically sound way to request an illustration or case. It appears most frequently in news and media, scientific writing, and formal business contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is generally used to seek clarification or elicit supportive instances. To use it effectively, provide sufficient context to ensure relevant responses. While alternatives like ""a case in point"" or ""for instance"" exist, "any example" remains a versatile option for prompting specific instances to clarify ideas or support arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a case in point

Replaces the request for an example with a direct introduction of one, emphasizing its relevance.

a relevant instance

Substitutes the general term 'example' with a more specific 'instance', highlighting its pertinence.

an illustration of this

Offers a more descriptive alternative to 'example', focusing on its illustrative quality.

a specific instance

Emphasizes the need for a particular example, differing from a general one.

for instance

Provides a direct and concise way to introduce an example, rather than asking for one.

a typical case

Suggests an example that is representative or common, varying from any possible example.

an anecdotal instance

Introduces a personal or narrative example, differing from a factual or statistical one.

a demonstration

Replaces 'example' with a term implying a more active or visual illustration.

a precedent

Suggests a previous occurrence that serves as a guide or justification, rather than a simple example.

a showcase

Highlights an instance meant to impress or represent the best, unlike just any example.

FAQs

How can I use "any example" in a sentence?

You can use "any example" to request an illustration or specific case. For instance, you might ask, "Can you give me "any example" of this policy in practice?" or "Do you have "any example" of how this works?"

What is a good alternative to "any example"?

Alternatives to "any example" include "a case in point", "a relevant instance", or "for instance", which directly introduces an example rather than requesting one.

Is it correct to say "any examples" instead of "any example"?

Using "any examples" is correct when you are looking for multiple illustrations or cases. "Any example" is appropriate when you need just one instance.

What's the difference between "any example" and "an example"?

"Any example" suggests you're open to any relevant instance, while "an example" implies you already have a specific illustration in mind but may need clarification or further details.