by outlining an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by outlining an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify a point or illustrate a concept by providing a specific instance or case. Example: "To better understand the theory, I will explain it by outlining an example from real life."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We begin by outlining an example workflow.

Genome Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

An overview of the treatment, a session-by-session outline, an example session activity, and an example homework assignment are provided.

Cognitive and Behavioral Practice

We outline an artificial example to demonstrate, step by step, a possible application of CVIIM P ,n, K

BMC Medical Research Methodology

The methodology is outlined and an example is presented.

Combustion and Flame

Finish by outlining the suit.

WikiHow

Mr. Moynihan, for example, outlined a bill that would enable a worker to voluntarily invest two percentage points of the 12.4 percent Social Security tax now shared by employers and employees.

The New York Times

It also outlines by example, some of the wider principles of poster compilation and presentation, for use by those who may utilise the medium at academic and scientific meetings.

Paediatric Respiratory Reviews

An example from a paper by Ipsos Mori (pdf) outlines a theoretical scenario where Conservative voters support a Liberal Democrat candidate.

The Guardian

For example, he outlined a 10-point plan for improving military production, and he has increased spending for weapons procurement by 50percentt, a development that appears to reflect the strains put on the military by the war in Chechnya.

The New York Times

Last October, for example, it outlined a programme of reforms to combat inequality.

The Economist

Such a facility with mathematics includes a breadth of knowledge as outlined, for example, by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (2000)—number and operations, geometry and measurement, data analysis, and algebra (see also Dossey 1997); or more generally an understanding of pattern, dimension, quantity, uncertainty, shape, and change (Steen 1990).

International Journal of STEM Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by outlining an example", ensure the example is clear, concise, and directly relevant to the concept you are explaining. A well-chosen example can significantly enhance understanding.

Common error

Avoid using examples that are too complex or only tangentially related to the main point. This can confuse readers and undermine your explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by outlining an example" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, often indicating the method or means by which something is explained or demonstrated. As Ludwig AI states, it helps in clarifying a point.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by outlining an example" is a phrase used to introduce a detailed illustration to clarify a concept or argument. While Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct, its frequency is relatively rare. The phrase is most commonly found in scientific, news, and wiki contexts. To use it effectively, ensure that the example is relevant and clearly explained, enhancing the overall understanding. It is a useful tool for writers seeking to provide concrete illustrations in their explanations. According to Ludwig, the phrase is perfectly valid and usable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by illustrating a case

Focuses on using a specific instance or event to explain something.

by giving a demonstration

Emphasizes the act of showing how something works or is done.

by presenting a scenario

Highlights the use of a hypothetical or real situation to explain an idea.

by detailing a sample

Focuses on providing a thorough explanation of a representative item.

by walking through a prototype

Highlights a step-by-step explanation using an initial model.

by sketching a use case

Emphasizes a visual and concise representation of how something will be applied.

by displaying an instance

Focuses on showing a particular occurrence or example.

by explaining via illustration

Focuses on clarifying an idea through a visual or descriptive aid.

by offering a practical application

Emphasizes real-world relevance and use of the explained concept.

by providing a specific incidence

Highlights providing a particular event or example.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "by outlining an example" in my writing?

Use "by outlining an example" to introduce a concrete illustration that clarifies a complex concept. Start with the general principle, then use the phrase to signal the introduction of your example.

What are some alternatives to "by outlining an example"?

You can use alternatives like "by illustrating a case", "by giving a demonstration", or "by presenting a scenario" to introduce an illustrative example.

Is it better to "outline an example" or to "provide an example"?

Both phrases are valid, but "outline an example" suggests a more structured and detailed presentation of the example, while "provide an example" is more general.

How does "by outlining an example" differ from "for example"?

"For example" introduces an instance directly, whereas "by outlining an example" implies a more thorough and structured explanation centered around the example.