argue for example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "argue for example" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It seems to be an attempt to introduce an example in the context of an argument, but it lacks clarity and proper structure. Example: "In discussing climate change, one might argue, for example, that rising sea levels threaten coastal cities."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

One could argue, for example, that this was a factor in both world wars.

The New York Times

Banks may argue, for example, that the repayment requests have flaws of their own.

The New York Times

You might argue, for example, that there's little point in having an organic product that doesn't pay people fairly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They argue, for example, that the government's spending abroad prevented it from giving America a needed fiscal boost at home.

The Economist

They argue, for example, that cutting company tax will certainly attract foreign capital and grow the economy and deliver the money to pay for services.

The Guardian

So lawyers might argue, for example, that falling stock prices over the last few months are related to a claim made much earlier.

The New York Times

They argue, for example, that teachers' unions, even by pushing for raises, engage in political speech because that might force communities to increase taxes.

The Guardian

Many argue, for example, that there is a central processor somewhere in the brain governing our ability to interpret the world around us.

The Guardian

Many argue, for example, that a degree of political devolution would help to defuse the bloody Muslim insurgency in the four southernmost provinces of the country.

The Economist

Some argue, for example, that works of art have a distinct criterion of identity, one that reflects the peculiar nature and demands of aesthetic interest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

You can argue, for example, that high capital-gains taxes don't actually produce that much more revenue, because they just lead people to hold assets for longer.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "argue for example" directly. Instead, integrate examples smoothly within your arguments by using phrases like "for instance", "to illustrate", or "by way of example".

Common error

Don't force the phrase "argue for example" into your writing. It often disrupts the flow and can make your arguments sound less convincing. Aim for smoother transitions and clearer connections between your claims and your evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "argue for example" functions as an attempt to introduce an illustrative instance within a broader argument. However, it's considered grammatically awkward. As Ludwig AI points out, it lacks clarity, and is better replaced by clearer alternatives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "argue for example" is frequently used across various sources, including news, science, and encyclopedias. Despite its common occurrence, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect and lacking clarity. While the phrase intends to introduce illustrative instances to support an argument, it's best to use clearer alternatives such as "for instance", "to illustrate", or "by way of example". These alternatives offer better grammatical structure and enhance the overall coherence of your writing. Though its frequent in News & Media, more formal contexts should use a more precise language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

argue by way of example

This alternative emphasizes the use of a specific instance to support a broader argument.

argue through illustration

This option highlights that the argument is made clearer and more convincing via a specific illustration.

illustrate the argument with

This highlights the use of a specific instance to support the argument, while omitting the verb argue.

support the argument with

Emphasizes providing evidence to back up a claim, rather than presenting the argument itself through the example.

demonstrate with an example

This focuses on showing or proving a point using a specific instance.

exemplify this with

This showcases a particular instance that perfectly embodies a concept, shifting the verb and structure.

show this by example

This suggests presenting a demonstration or evidence through a particular instance.

for instance, argue

Reorders the words but still results in an awkward construction, though potentially usable depending on sentence flow.

to illustrate, one could argue

Introducing an illustration before presenting an argument, improving clarity.

make a case using examples

It focuses more on building a case than on the direct argument itself. It emphasizes a logical approach.

FAQs

How can I introduce an example when making an argument?

Instead of "argue for example", use phrases like "for instance", "to illustrate", or "by way of example" to integrate examples seamlessly into your reasoning.

What's wrong with the phrase "argue for example"?

While commonly found, the phrase "argue for example" is grammatically awkward and doesn't clearly convey the intended meaning. It's better to rephrase for clarity and precision.

Is there a difference between "argue for example" and "argue by example"?

"Argue by example" is a more accepted phrase that means to present an argument using specific instances as evidence. "Argue for example", on the other hand, is often perceived as grammatically incorrect.

What are some alternatives to "argue for example" in academic writing?

In academic writing, prefer more formal and precise phrases such as "to demonstrate", "to illustrate", or "for instance" when introducing an example to support your argument.