for an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for an example" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when providing an illustration to clarify or emphasize a point you are making. For example, if you were discussing the importance of getting a good night's sleep, you might say, "Not getting enough sleep can have serious consequences, both physically and mentally; for an example, a lack of sleep can lead to impaired concentration and difficulty with decision making."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Care for an example?

The New York Times

Krzyzewski pressed James for an example.

The New York Times - Sports

For an example, look at Boeing.

The Economist

Click here for an example.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She searches for an example.

The Guardian - Music

He reached for an example.

The New York Times - Magazine

I searched for an example.

The New Yorker

I asked him for an example.

The Guardian

I ask her for an example.

The Guardian - Music

(See box for an example).

Science Magazine

Visit www.onlineteaching.com for an example.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overusing "for an example" in short successions. Mix with alternatives like "for instance" or "to illustrate" to maintain reader interest.

Common error

Ensure the example you provide after using "for an example" is specific and directly relevant to the point you're making. Vague examples dilute the strength of your argument and confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for an example" functions as a transitional phrase. It's used to signal that the speaker or writer is about to provide a specific instance to illustrate a general point or statement. Ludwig AI confirms that it can be used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

27%

Wiki

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for an example" serves as a transitional phrase used to introduce a specific instance that clarifies a general statement. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage. While versatile across different contexts, it's most prevalent in news, media, science and wiki sources. While acceptable, the phrase is typically not considered formal. For stylistic writing, avoid redundancy by incorporating similar phrases like "for instance" or "as an illustration". When writing, ensure the examples are relevant and specific.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for instance

A shorter, more direct way to introduce an example.

take for example

Slightly alters the structure while retaining the same meaning.

as an illustration

Replaces "example" with "illustration", emphasizing the clarifying aspect.

as a case in point

Emphasizes that the example directly supports the preceding statement.

by way of example

Adds a more formal tone, indicating the purpose of the example.

to give an instance

Focuses on providing a specific case or occurrence.

to cite a case

Highlights a particular situation or event as an example.

to exemplify

Uses a verb form to introduce something serving as a typical example.

consider this

Invites the listener or reader to think about a specific situation.

specifically

Introduces a particular detail to clarify a general statement.

FAQs

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

You can use "for an example" to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a general statement. For instance, "Regular exercise is beneficial for your health; for an example, it can reduce the risk of heart disease".

What phrases are similar to "for an example"?

Alternatives to "for an example" include "for instance", "as an illustration", or "to cite a case", which all serve to introduce an illustrative instance.

Is it better to use "for example" or "for an example"?

While both are understandable, "for example" is generally preferred and more grammatically correct. "For an example" is less common but can be used if you want to particularly emphasize that you're providing one specific example.

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

Use "for an example" when you want to make an abstract idea more concrete by providing a specific instance or illustration. This helps the reader understand your point more clearly. Be careful not to overuse it; vary your language with synonyms.