as a example

USAGE SUMMARY

"as an example" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to introduce or give an illustrative instance of something that you are talking about. For example: - "Many countries have implemented stricter laws to combat pollution. As an example, China has enforced strict emissions regulations for factories." - "There are many ways to show gratitude, such as giving a gift or sending a thank-you note. As an example, I always make sure to say thank you verbally to show my appreciation." - "As an example of the company's success, profits have doubled in the past year." As you can see, "as an example" is typically used to provide a specific, concrete instance to support or explain a broader statement or idea. It can be used in both formal and informal writing and speaking.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Founded as a counter both to U.S. influence in the region and to radical Islam, it is publicly seen as a example of Sino-Russian cooperation.

The New York Times

Google Now, a smartphone app that pulls together data from a person's Google account in order to offer helpful automatic reminders, is often cited as a example.

The Guardian - Tech

As a example of such a relationship, he pointed to the nascent venture between Merrill Lynch, the nation's largest brokerage firm, and HSBC, the London-based banking company.

The New York Times

The climate crisis is so obviously a serious matter that upon first noting that Heffernan recommended Watts Up With That? as a example of a science blog that readers should check out, I initially thought she was trying satire.

The New York Times

Because materiality is a complicated legal standard, Mr. Sokol can defend trades that others see as not only unseemly, but as a example of what insider trading laws should prohibit.

The New York Times

He also said that "every discrepancy" in his life had been exposed in print, ruining his job prospects: "would you give me a job after a Google search comes up with the headlines of last week and will be used as a example to keep people like me quiet".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

As an example, consider "Samurai!

The New York Times - Arts

Take travel as an example.

The New York Times

Take me as an example.

The New Yorker

Take Ireland as an example.

The Economist

He uses a relationship as an example.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use the correct article ("an") before "example" when using the phrase to introduce an illustration. For example, say "as an example" rather than "as a example".

Common error

Avoid using "as a example". The correct phrase is "as an example", because "example" starts with a vowel sound. This is a common error that can undermine the clarity and professionalism of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a example" (incorrect) is intended to function as an introductory phrase to signal that an illustration or specific instance will follow. Ludwig reveals its presence in varied contexts, although often flagged as needing correction to "as an example".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

58%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as a example" is a grammatically incorrect but commonly found expression intended to introduce an illustrative instance. As Ludwig AI explains, the correct form is "as an example", which uses the article "an" because "example" begins with a vowel sound. While some authoritative sources contain this error, it's crucial to use the correct version to maintain clarity and professionalism in your writing. Alternatives like "for example" and "to illustrate" can also effectively introduce examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as an example

Corrects the grammatical error by adding the article 'an'.

for example

A very common and slightly more concise alternative.

as a case in point

More formal and emphasizes the relevance of the example.

to illustrate

Focuses on the illustrative nature of the example.

consider

Directs the audience to think about the following example.

take for instance

Slightly more informal than "for example".

by way of illustration

More verbose and formal, highlighting the illustrative aspect.

to give an illustration

Similar to "to illustrate" but more explicit.

specifically

Introduces a precise and detailed example.

in particular

Highlights a specific and noteworthy example.

FAQs

What is the correct way to say "as a example"?

The correct phrase is "as an example". The article "an" is used because the word "example" begins with a vowel sound.

When should I use "as an example"?

Use "as an example" to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a broader point or idea. It's similar to saying "for example".

What are some alternatives to "as an example"?

Some alternatives to "as an example" include "for example", "to illustrate", and "consider". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is "as a example of" grammatically correct?

No, "as a example of" is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrasing is "as an example of", which requires the article "an" before the noun "example".