as a hypothetical example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a hypothetical example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a scenario that is not real but is used to illustrate a point or concept. Example: "To clarify my point about the importance of teamwork, let me present a hypothetical example: imagine a project where each member contributes their unique skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

As a hypothetical example, Mr. Summers suggested that an institution could have securities on its books at $60, but the current market price might only be $30.

The New York Times

"As a hypothetical example, take the University of Pennsylvania and Penn State, which are two schools a lot of students choose between," Krueger said.

The New Yorker

Mr. Cooper said RiverBay had merely floated the wage freeze option as a hypothetical example to encourage union officials to offer a compromise.

The New York Times

As a hypothetical example, Ms. Smith said, a subsidy could pay part of the wages of workers in a restaurant in Manhattan's financial district whose jobs would otherwise be eliminated because of a decline in business.

The New York Times

She pointed to the Syrian civil war, where 70,000 people have been killed, as a hypothetical example, noting that Russia argues that sales are permitted because there is no arms embargo.

The New York Times

He used as a hypothetical example a fan sitting at a Penn State football game and reading loudly from the grand jury report of the Jerry Sandusky sexual abuse case.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Let's look at a hypothetical example.

Forbes

As an illustration, consider a hypothetical example where the incidences of subjective and objective febrile malaria were both 10 per 100 children, and the respective MAFs were 54% and 85% (using a threshold of 2,500 parasites/µL).

Plosone

As described below, and later illustrated through a hypothetical example in the Appendix, as each individual is peeled, an anterior cutset is generated.

Genetics, Selection, Evolution

That is not just a hypothetical example, as Staff Sergeant Tracy Dice Johnson learned when her wife, Sergeant Donna Johnson, was killed in Afghanistan, last fall.

The New Yorker

A hypothetical example is as follows (Table 2).

Financial Innovation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a hypothetical example", ensure the example clearly illustrates the concept you're explaining. Avoid overly complex or ambiguous scenarios that might confuse the reader.

Common error

Avoid presenting "as a hypothetical example" as if it were an actual event or proven fact. Clearly distinguish between the hypothetical scenario and real-world evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a hypothetical example" serves as an introductory phrase. It indicates that the following content is not factual but is presented to illustrate a concept or argument. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

38%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as a hypothetical example" is a commonly used introductory phrase that signals the presentation of a scenario intended for illustrative purposes. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's found frequently in News & Media, Science, and Academia, serving to clarify complex concepts through relatable, albeit unreal, situations. While there are numerous alternatives, such as "for the sake of argument" or "let's assume hypothetically", the key is to ensure the example clearly supports and enhances the explanation without being mistaken for reality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let's assume hypothetically

Clearly states that the following assumptions are not based on real facts.

for example purposes

Highlights the purpose of the forthcoming information as merely illustrative, not necessarily factual.

in a purely theoretical scenario

Highlights the detachment from reality, focusing on abstract principles.

for the sake of argument

Emphasizes the speculative nature of the example, implying a temporary acceptance of certain conditions for discussion.

consider this scenario

Invites the audience to mentally engage with a specific set of circumstances.

suppose, for illustration

Directly proposes a scenario for the purpose of making something clearer.

let's say for instance

Offers a more informal and conversational way to introduce an example.

by way of illustration

More formal and concise, indicating that an example is about to be presented.

to illustrate this point

Connects the example directly to a preceding statement or argument.

imagine if

Prompts a creative exercise in visualizing a possible but not necessarily real situation.

FAQs

How can I use "as a hypothetical example" in a sentence?

You can use "as a hypothetical example" to introduce a situation that helps clarify a concept. For instance, "As a hypothetical example, let's consider a company that implements a four-day work week to understand its potential benefits".

What phrases are similar to "as a hypothetical example"?

Alternatives include "for example purposes", "to illustrate this point", or "let's assume hypothetically", each offering a slightly different nuance in introducing an illustrative scenario.

Is it appropriate to use "as a hypothetical example" in formal writing?

Yes, "as a hypothetical example" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when explaining complex topics. However, consider alternatives like "by way of illustration" for a more concise option.

When should I avoid using "as a hypothetical example"?

Avoid using "as a hypothetical example" when discussing established facts or presenting empirical evidence. It's best reserved for situations where you need to create a scenario to enhance understanding, rather than proving a point with real-world data.