cite an example

USAGE SUMMARY

"cite an example" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you're asking someone (or yourself!) to provide an example to support a point or argument. For example, you might write in an essay: "I argue that people are using technology more in daily life. To support this argument, I will cite an example."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Let's cite an example.

The New York Times - Books

The McCain campaign could not cite an example of an Obama adviser's claiming that.

The New York Times

But can anyone cite an example in which that kind of a process has produced really great architecture?

The New York Times - Magazine

You can cite an example like Fred Thompson, but you'll run out of them pretty quickly after that.

The New York Times

To cite an example: A person is frightened by a white cloth flapping in a darkened hall, taking it for a ghost.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Every big employer in the city, it seems, can cite an example of high-paying jobs that had to be relocated to foreign cities because the people chosen to fill them could not gain entry to the United States.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

He cited an example.

The New York Times

(Hartmann cites an example of a man who was grieving over the death of his mother.

The New Yorker

He cited an example — a house sold by his agency a week ago in North Caldwell.

The New York Times

"The Madison Avenue side of Barneys," Ms. E. said, citing an example.

The New York Times - Style

I mean, I just cited an example of the administration just unilaterally acting without any input.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cite an example", ensure the example directly supports the point you are making. A weak example can undermine your argument.

Common error

Avoid citing examples that are only tangentially related to your main point. Ensure the example clearly and directly illustrates the concept you are discussing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cite an example" functions as a discourse marker, specifically used to introduce or refer to an illustrative case or instance. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to support claims or arguments by providing concrete evidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cite an example" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce illustrative instances to support arguments or provide clarity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. Its usage spans various contexts, but it's particularly frequent in news, scientific, and academic writing, with sources like The New York Times and Science being prominent. While "give an example" is similar, "cite an example" often implies referencing a specific, authoritative source. When using the phrase, ensuring the example is relevant and directly supports your claim is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cite an instance

Uses "instance" instead of "example", implying a specific occurrence or event.

identify an example

Focuses on the act of recognizing or pointing out a suitable example.

list an example

Suggests presenting an example from a collection or series.

indicate an example

Emphasizes pointing out an example, often in a less explicit way.

mention an example

Implies a brief or casual reference to an example.

present an example

Highlights the act of formally introducing or offering an example.

offer an example

Suggests providing an example as a helpful or illustrative point.

point to an example

Focuses on directing attention to a specific example.

give an illustration

Uses "illustration" as a synonym for "example", implying a more detailed or visual representation.

provide a case in point

Offers a specific instance that clearly demonstrates a particular issue or argument.

FAQs

How can I use "cite an example" in a sentence?

You can use "cite an example" to introduce a specific instance that supports your argument. For instance, "To illustrate this point, I will "cite an example" from recent research".

What are some alternatives to "cite an example"?

You can use alternatives like "identify an example", "mention an example", or "provide a case in point" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between ""cite an example"" and "give an example"?

While similar, ""cite an example"" often implies referencing a specific source or authority for the example, whereas "give an example" is more general.

When is it appropriate to use ""cite an example"" in academic writing?

"Cite an example" is appropriate when you want to strengthen your argument by referencing a specific instance, study, or case that supports your claim. Always ensure the example is relevant and properly attributed.