at an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at an example" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It is not typically used in standard English, as it lacks context and clarity. Example: "Let's look at an example to better understand the concept."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Looking at an example will make it clearer.

The New York Times - Sports

Last month we looked at an example of an old mapping style being applied to modern data.

The Guardian

This post looks at an example in which the game elements are so subtle, you might not even notice you're playing a game at all.

The New York Times

There are no templates: the maker has to look at an example plate and recreate it as best as he or she can, just like Chanin's stitchers.

The New York Times

Let us look at an example.

SEP

If you're having trouble imagining this scenario, let's look at an example.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

You cite Melissa McCarthy, at 44, as an example.

The Guardian - Opinion

Let's look at vaccination as an example.

The Guardian - Opinion

Look at Rackspace as an example.

Forbes

He looks at Oprah as an example.

Huffington Post

Let's look at balls as an example.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While the phrase "at an example" appears in numerous sources, prioritize clarity and grammatical correctness by using alternatives like "for example" or "as an illustration".

Common error

Don't default to "at an example" simply because it appears frequently. Actively choose more grammatically sound options such as "for example", "as an illustration", or rephrase the sentence for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at an example" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically intended to introduce or reference a specific instance or illustration. However, based on Ludwig's AI response and analysis, it is considered grammatically questionable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

39%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

While the phrase "at an example" appears frequently across various online sources, including news outlets, scientific publications, and wikis, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically questionable. Though prevalent, opting for clearer and more grammatically accepted alternatives like "for example", "as an illustration", or rephrasing the sentence is recommended to enhance clarity and maintain credibility in writing. Despite its high frequency, prioritizing accuracy remains essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for example

The most common and direct alternative to introduce an example.

as an illustration

Substitutes "at" with "as", emphasizing the role of the example as an illustration.

by way of illustration

Replaces the preposition "at" with "by way of", focusing on the illustrative purpose.

for instance

Offers a more concise and direct way to introduce an example.

to demonstrate

Shifts the focus to the act of demonstrating through an example.

to illustrate

Similar to 'to demonstrate', but specifically emphasizes illustration.

consider the case of

Introduces a specific scenario or case as an example.

take the case of

Similar to "consider the case of", focusing on a specific instance.

in this instance

Highlights a particular occurrence as an example.

in this situation

Expands the scope to a broader scenario serving as an example.

FAQs

How can I correctly use "at an example" in a sentence?

While "at an example" is found in some contexts, it's generally better to use phrases like "for example", "as an illustration", or "in an example" for clarity and grammatical correctness.

What's a better way to phrase "look at an example"?

Consider using "let's examine an example" or "let's consider "for instance"" to maintain grammatical accuracy and improve clarity.

Is "at an example" grammatically correct?

Although it appears in some sources, "at an example" isn't considered standard English. Opt for alternatives like "in an example" or "by way of example".

What are some alternatives to "looking at an example"?

You can use alternatives such as "analyzing an example", "considering a case", or "reviewing "an illustration"" depending on the context.