example of them

USAGE SUMMARY

'example of them' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You could use it to refer to a group of things or people you have mentioned previously, for example: "I've read about several different approaches to solving this issue - here is an example of them in action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

The team's players believe state and university officials are making an example of them.

The New York Times - Sports

"When you catch someone, you should make an example of them".

The New York Times

But they were also worried that the state might choose to make an example of them.

The New York Times

In Britain there is a tendency to lock away famous people just to make an example of them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Making an example of them will hopefully serve as a deterrent for other smugglers," Shepherd told mongabay.com.com

The Guardian

Most economists are predicting a slight drop and this may be a rare example of them guessing right.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Shelter estimates there were 213,000 examples of them last year (around 2% of renters).

The Guardian

He is always getting on George Lynch and Toni Kukoc, making examples of them routinely.

The New York Times - Sports

They were derived from Indian prototypes (examples of them have also been found in Cambodia and Vietnam).

Encyclopedia Britannica

But we're more accustomed to non-fiction film and television because there are more examples of them.

The Guardian - Tech

"They're big fish, and big fish make the biggest splashes — they'll make examples of them".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scientific writing, ensure the pronoun "them" clearly refers to a plural antecedent mentioned previously to maintain clarity.

Common error

Do not confuse "example of them" with "example for them". Use "of" when the item is a part of the group, and "for" only if the item is being presented as a role model to be followed by the group.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "example of them" functions as a complex noun phrase consisting of the head noun "example", the preposition "of" and the plural object pronoun "them". According to Ludwig AI, this construction is grammatically sound and serves as a vital tool for referencing specific instances within a larger set.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "example of them" is a robust and correct English phrase used to denote representation or to describe disciplinary measures intended as a deterrent. Ludwig AI highlights its widespread use in top-tier publications, confirming its reliability for writers. Whether you are providing a scientific "sample of them" or describing how authorities "make an example of them", the phrase is a standard choice in high-quality writing. Its high occurrence in outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its effectiveness in both narrative and analytical prose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instance of them

Focuses on a specific occurrence rather than a general representative sample

illustration of them

Suggests a clearer, more descriptive or visual showing of the group's characteristics

sample of them

Used more frequently in statistical, scientific or physical contexts

case of them

Implies a situational or medical occurrence

representation of them

Emphasizes how the part stands for the whole

specimen of them

Highly formal or scientific, usually referring to biological or physical objects

exemplar of them

Suggests a perfect or ideal model of the group

demonstration of them

Focuses on the active showing or proving of a trait

one such example

Changes the syntax to emphasize the singularity within a known set

manifestation of them

Refers to a visible or physical sign of an abstract concept

FAQs

How do I use "example of them" in a sentence?

You can use it to refer to a specific item from a previously mentioned group, such as: "There are many ways to solve this, and here is an "example of them" in practice."

What is the difference between "example of them" and "example for them"?

An "example of them" is a representative member of a group, while an "example for them" is a model that the group is meant to follow or emulate.

Is "make an example of them" a common expression?

Yes, it is a very common idiomatic phrase used to describe punishing someone to deter others. You might also say "make them an example".

What can I say instead of "example of them"?

Depending on your context, you can use alternatives like "instance of them", "sample of them" or "illustration of them".