consider the following example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "consider the following example" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used when introducing an example to explain or illustrate a point in an essay or other form of writing. For example, "When considering the effects of climate change, consider the following example: polar ice caps are melting at an alarming rate."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Consider the following example, again from Microsoft.

Harvard Business Review

For purposes of illustration, consider the following example.

Columbia University

Consider the following example: A manufacturer of steel cords had hundreds of machines in one facility.

Harvard Business Review

Consider the following example, which contrasts the one we just analyzed.

University of California, Berkeley

Consider the following example: A Boston-based start-up placed kiosks for dispensing its products in retail stores.

Harvard Business Review

Consider the following example.

Forbes

So consider the following example.

SEP

Now, consider the following example.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

For this we consider the following example.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Consider the following example (see Fig. 13).

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

To show this, consider the following example.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "consider the following example", ensure the example directly and clearly relates to the point you're making. A strong connection enhances clarity and reinforces your argument.

Common error

Avoid using an example that's too complex or convoluted, as it can distract from your main point. Keep examples straightforward and easy to understand, ensuring they illustrate rather than confuse.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "consider the following example" functions as an introductory phrase. It sets the stage for a specific illustration or instance that supports a broader point or argument. Ludwig AI indicates that this is a standard phrase for introducing examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "consider the following example" is a versatile phrase used to introduce an illustrative instance and clarify a point. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a correct and widely used phrase across many contexts. While the phrase is appropriate in most formal and neutral settings, alternatives such as "for instance" or "to illustrate" might be more suitable for informal communication. Remember to ensure that the example is relevant and easy to understand for maximum impact. By understanding the nuances of its usage, you can effectively incorporate "consider the following example" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

examine the subsequent instance

Replaces 'consider' with 'examine' and 'following' with 'subsequent', adding a slightly more formal tone.

observe the proceeding case

Uses 'observe' instead of 'consider' and replaces 'following' with 'proceeding' which adds a formal tone.

to illustrate, imagine the following

Uses 'imagine' to encourage the reader to visualize the example, making it more engaging.

let's analyze this case

Replaces the original phrase with an invitation to analyze a specific situation, offering a more active and engaging tone.

view the next situation as a model

Changes 'consider' to 'view' and 'example' to 'model', suggesting a pattern for emulation.

reflect upon the given scenario

Replaces the word consider with reflect and example with scenario. Reflect is more thoughtful than consider and scenario feels more like a real world situation.

take this situation as an illustration

Uses 'take' instead of 'consider' and specifies 'situation', making it more direct and less suggestive.

note the upcoming demonstration

Replaces 'consider' with 'note' and 'example' with 'demonstration', shifting the focus to observable evidence.

for instance, think about...

Breaks down the phrase into 'for instance' and 'think about', creating a more conversational and less structured introduction.

as an example, picture this scenario

Combines 'as an example' with 'picture this scenario' for a vivid and imaginative feel.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "consider the following example" in a paragraph?

Use "consider the following example" to introduce a specific instance that supports your argument. Make sure the example is relevant and clearly explained to reinforce your point.

What are some alternatives to "consider the following example"?

You can use phrases like "for instance", "to illustrate", or "take this case" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "consider the following example" after already providing context?

While not always redundant, ensure that the example adds significant value and isn't merely restating previously mentioned information. If the connection is already clear, an explicit introduction might be unnecessary.

What's the difference between "consider the following example" and "for example"?

"Consider the following example" is a more formal and structured way to introduce an example, while "for example" is simpler and more commonly used in less formal contexts.