for instances when

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for instances when" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to specific situations or examples that illustrate a point or concept. Example: "We need to prepare a plan for instances when the system fails unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

In recent days, Mr. Forrester has picked through the former senator's 18-year record for instances when, he asserts, Mr. Lautenberg was weak on military matters and defense spending.

The New York Times

*The legal age for getting a handgun permit and buying a handgun will rise to 21 from 18. *A new crime of criminal purchase of a weapon will be created for instances when someone buys a gun illegally or buys one for someone else who cannot legally buy one.

The New York Times

They looked for instances when team members described a particular behavior as an ''unwritten rule'' or when they explained certain things as part of the ''team's culture.'' Some groups said that teammates interrupted one another constantly and that team leaders reinforced that behavior by interrupting others themselves.

The New York Times - Magazine

He analyzed mortgage securities made up of loans by Countrywide Financial, which is now owned by Bank of America, looking for instances when the second lien was still extant, even though the first lien attached to the same property had been modified.

The New York Times

The sedimentation velocity was calculated for instances when the density reached a minimal limit value.

Journal of Water Process Engineering

The arrangements for instances when a female bishop is appointed but traditionalist parishes reject her authority have proved a stumbling block to its approval.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

As, for instance, when she describes working with Ozon.

The Guardian - Film

For instance, when does fair use become copyright infringement?

The New Yorker

What happens, for instance, when a corporate outsider steals information?

The New York Times - Magazine

What happens, for instance, when there's a culture clash?

Independent

In the Halloween episode, for instance, "When You're Smiling" becomes "When You're Booing".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for instances when" to introduce specific examples or conditions under which something occurs or applies. It's effective for clarifying rules, procedures, or expected behaviors.

Common error

Avoid repetitive use of "for instances when" in close proximity. Vary your language by using alternatives like "in cases where" or "when" to maintain a smoother flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for instances when" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a subordinate clause. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its role in specifying conditions or scenarios. It sets the stage for describing what happens under particular circumstances.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for instances when" is a grammatically sound and frequently used construction to introduce specific conditions or situations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use in news, science, and business contexts. While versatile, writers should avoid overuse and consider more concise alternatives like "when" where appropriate. Mastering its usage ensures clarity and precision in writing, a key element in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in cases where

Emphasizes specific situations or scenarios where a particular condition applies.

when there are instances of

More verbose, highlighting the existence of multiple occurrences.

on occasions when

Focuses on specific events or happenings.

in situations where

Highlights the circumstances or conditions present.

for moments when

Focuses on particular points in time.

in the event that

More formal, referring to a possible future occurrence.

under circumstances where

Emphasizes the conditions or factors surrounding an event.

if there are times when

Expresses a conditional statement regarding specific periods.

during periods when

Focuses on intervals or stretches of time.

as and when

British English usage indicating occurrences without a specific schedule.

FAQs

How can I use "for instances when" in a sentence?

Use "for instances when" to introduce specific situations or conditions. For example: "A backup plan is needed for instances when the primary system fails."

What are some alternatives to "for instances when"?

You can use alternatives such as "in cases where", "when there are instances of", or "on occasions when" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to use "for instances when", or can I simply use "when"?

While "for instances when" adds emphasis, "when" is often sufficient and more concise. Consider the desired level of formality and clarity. Using "when" is appropriate in many situations.

What is the difference between "for instances when" and "for example when"?

"For instances when" introduces specific scenarios, while "for example when" introduces illustrative examples. Use "for example when" when you want to provide a typical case.