cite a specific instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cite a specific instance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to provide a particular example or case to support their argument or statement. Example: "In your essay, please cite a specific instance where the theory was applied successfully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Jayaraman could not cite a specific instance in which a member of the group had lost a client to a Trump business.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

He cites a specific instance: the unforeseen national craze for "hush puppies" as proof that companies do not control trends; that the best a company can do is latch on to a trend that is evolving.

University of California, Berkeley

Epshteyn could not cite a specific example.

The Washington Post

Houghton cites a specific case that shows what he means.

Forbes

He did not mention Blackwater or Iraq, nor cite a specific reason for leaving.

The New York Times

Scopus also features cited references and can be searched for articles that cite a specific article.

University of Chicago

It did not cite any specific instance of this aiming practice, but the tone of the article indicated it happened fairly frequently.

The New York Times

Mr. Whitehouse, whose seat on the Intelligence Committee gives him access to classified cases, has not cited any specific instance in which President Bush secretly decided not to enforce or to change an executive order.

The New York Times

The inspection team from the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, the watchdog group in charge of implementing the agreement along with the United Nations, has not publicly cited any specific instance of opposition fighters' impeding access to chemical weapons sites.

The New York Times

The mechanics' letter to airline executives, delivered earlier this week and described in The Seattle Times today, did not cite any specific instances of inadequate repairs.

The New York Times

Especially given that "robot" is a specific instance of automation.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cite a specific instance", ensure the instance is directly relevant to the argument. The clearer the connection, the more persuasive your point will be.

Common error

Avoid citing a "specific instance" that is actually vague or general. The power of this phrase lies in its ability to provide concrete, undeniable evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cite a specific instance" functions as a request for evidence or support in an argument. It asks for a concrete example to back up a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cite a specific instance" is a grammatically sound phrase used to request concrete evidence or examples. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the validity of this phrase. It is commonly found in news, academic and professional contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the instance provided is relevant and concrete. Alternatives include ""provide a specific example"" and "mention a particular case". The aim of the phrase is to strenghten claims by adding credibility to the arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

provide a specific example

Replaces "cite" with "provide", offering a more direct and less formal tone.

mention a particular case

Substitutes "cite" with "mention" and "instance" with "case", making it slightly more conversational.

point to a concrete example

Uses "point to" instead of "cite" and "concrete" instead of "specific", emphasizing the tangibility of the example.

refer to a precise occurrence

Replaces "specific instance" with "precise occurrence", adding a layer of formality.

offer a relevant illustration

Changes "cite" to "offer" and "specific instance" to "relevant illustration", highlighting the illustrative purpose.

name a singular event

Uses "name" instead of "cite" and "singular event" for "specific instance", simplifying the language.

specify a certain situation

Replaces "cite" with "specify" and "instance" with "situation", focusing on the detailed nature of the example.

bring up a distinct occasion

Substitutes "cite" with "bring up" and "specific instance" with "distinct occasion", making the phrase more informal.

detail an individual case

Uses "detail" instead of "cite" and "individual case" for "specific instance", emphasizing the unique nature of the example.

list a particular incident

Changes "cite" to "list" and "specific instance" to "particular incident", offering a more straightforward alternative.

FAQs

What does it mean to "cite a specific instance"?

To "cite a specific instance" means to provide a particular example or case as evidence or support for a claim or argument.

How can I use "cite a specific instance" in a sentence?

You can use it when you want someone to provide a concrete example. For instance, "Can you "provide a specific example" to support your argument?"

What can I say instead of "cite a specific instance"?

You can use alternatives like ""provide a specific example"", "mention a particular case", or "point to a concrete example" depending on the context.

Why is it important to "cite a specific instance" in an argument?

Citing specific instances adds credibility to your argument by providing tangible evidence, rather than relying on generalizations or assumptions.