example of which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "example of which" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce an example of something that was previously mentioned or implied in the sentence. For example: - He showed me several types of snakes, the largest example of which was a 10-foot long python. - She read many books on history, the best example of which was "The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire." - Our team has traveled to many countries, the most recent example of which was Japan. Essentially, "example of which" is used in situations where there is a specific group or category being referred to, and the speaker wants to provide a specific instance of that group as an example.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We begin with the numbers, an example of which is shown below: A hypothetical snippet.

The Guardian

A considerable wealth of bronze and gold is present, an example of which is the great Clare gold hoard.

Encyclopedia Britannica

An Elvira Hancock-esque scalloped blue satin maxi, for example, of which only 20 are being made, will sell for £295.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Crucify" is not a serviceable synonym for "make an example of," which is what Armendariz, who subsequently apologized and resigned, apparently meant by it.

The New Yorker

Elsewhere the piece speculates that humans and Neanderthals share a common ancestor (an example of which was possibly found in Europe) from roughly 400,000 years ago.

The New Yorker

Meatballs are a great example (of which there are dozens in this city) of how necessity breeds ingenuity, not to mention some delectable food.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

L'Enclume is French for the anvil, an example of which sits in the dining room of what was once the village forge.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This would be the Irresistible Indie-Rock Anthem, a prime example of which is "Letter From an Occupant," by the Vancouver-based septet the New Pornographers.

The New York Times - Magazine

In the end, he succeeded in his desire to create courageous, momentous, 'total' art, the best example of which, his mural Where Do We Come From?

The Guardian - Arts

Such shifts are caused by the Doppler effect, an everyday example of which is the changing pitch of an ambulance siren as it passes by.

The Economist

He is represented here by an exquisite drawing of St. John the Evangelist based directly on a Dürer engraving, an example of which hangs next to it.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the noun phrase preceding "of which" clearly refers to the category from which the example is drawn, maintaining a logical connection and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "example of which" when the connection to the preceding noun is weak or unclear. For example, instead of saying, "He likes cars, an example of which is fast," specify the category: "He likes sports cars, an example of which is a Ferrari."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "example of which" functions as a relative clause introducing a specific instance that clarifies or illustrates a broader category previously mentioned. As Ludwig AI indicates, this usage is grammatically correct and well-supported by numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "example of which" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to introduce specific instances that illustrate broader categories. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various reliable sources, including news, science, and encyclopedias. To use it effectively, ensure a clear connection between the example and the preceding noun, thereby avoiding ambiguity. Alternatives like "such as" or "for instance" offer simpler alternatives, though "example of which" maintains a degree of formality suitable for written communication. Remember, while "example of which" is correct, prioritize clarity by ensuring the antecedent is well-defined, enhancing the overall effectiveness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

instance of which

Replaces "example" with "instance", emphasizing a specific occurrence.

case of which

Substitutes "example" with "case", highlighting a particular situation.

illustration of which

Uses "illustration" instead of "example", focusing on a visual or descriptive instance.

a particular example of which

Adds "particular" to emphasize the specificity of the example.

a notable example of which

Includes "notable" to highlight the significance of the example.

a prime example of which

Replaces "example" with "prime example", suggesting the instance is a leading or best case.

for instance

Uses "for instance" as a more concise way to introduce an example.

as an illustration

Offers "as an illustration" to present the example.

such as

Replaces the entire phrase with the simpler "such as".

to exemplify this

Presents the example with "to exemplify this".

FAQs

How can I use "example of which" in a sentence?

Use "example of which" to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a broader category mentioned earlier in the sentence. For instance, "She studied many philosophers, a key "example of which" is Socrates".

What are some alternatives to "example of which"?

You can use alternatives such as "such as", "for instance", or "a case of which" to introduce an illustrative instance.

Is it correct to say "example of which"?

Yes, "example of which" is grammatically correct and commonly used to provide specific instances related to a previously mentioned category. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and offers numerous examples of its use.

What's the difference between "example of which" and "such as"?

"Example of which" is a more formal way to introduce an example, suitable for academic or formal writing. "Such as" is more direct and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.