following example

USAGE SUMMARY

"following example" is a valid phrase in written English.
For example, "The following example illustrates the importance of paying attention to your surroundings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The result follows from the following example.

Mathematical Sciences

It follows from the following example.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

The following example illustrates the difference.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And then it gives the following example.

The New York Times

Consider the following example.

Forbes

So consider the following example.

SEP

The following example illustrates our point.

Forbes

Consider as an analogy the following example.

SEP

Consider, for instance, the following example.

SEP

See the following example.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

We provide the following example.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "following example" to transition smoothly from a general statement to a specific instance. This helps maintain the flow of your writing.

Common error

Don't use vague or commonly known examples that fail to add new insights. Instead, choose specific and relevant examples that strongly support your argument and showcase your understanding of the topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "following example" functions as a transitional device, guiding the reader from a general statement or concept to a specific instance that illustrates or supports it. Ludwig shows this usage is consistent across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "following example" is a widely used and grammatically sound way to introduce an illustrative instance. As confirmed by Ludwig, its versatility makes it appropriate for various writing styles, though alternatives might offer greater precision in specific contexts. It is commonly found in scientific, news, and formal business writing. Remember to ensure your example provides clear and relevant support for your argument. By avoiding generic examples, you can significantly enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

example below

Specifies the example is located below, providing spatial context.

next instance

Changes the noun from example to instance, implying a specific case.

subsequent illustration

Replaces example with illustration, suggesting a visual or descriptive instance; subsequent implies sequence.

illustrated instance

Combines illustration and instance, emphasizing a specific case that's demonstrative.

as an illustration

Offers a more formal introduction to an illustrative point.

following scenario

Replaces example with scenario, suggesting a hypothetical situation is about to be presented.

consider this case

Uses an imperative verb to prompt consideration of a particular case, changing the tone.

take this situation

Suggests considering a particular situation as an example, changing the noun.

for demonstration purposes

Explicitly states the purpose is demonstration, increasing formality.

observe this occurrence

Uses 'observe' to draw attention to a specific event or happening, changing the verb.

FAQs

How can I use "following example" in a sentence?

You can use "following example" to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a point. For example, "The theory is complex; the "following example" will clarify it."

What are some alternatives to "following example"?

Consider using phrases like "next instance", "subsequent illustration", or "consider this case" to introduce an example.

Is it better to say "the example below" or "the "following example""?

Both phrases are correct, but "the example below" indicates the example is physically positioned below the text, while "the "following example"" simply means the example will be presented next.

Can I use "following example" in formal writing?

Yes, "following example" is appropriate for formal writing. However, depending on the context, a more sophisticated phrase like "as an illustration" might be more suitable.