have a sample

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "have a sample" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to possessing or obtaining a sample of something, often in contexts like research, testing, or product evaluation. Example: "Before we proceed with the analysis, please ensure that we have a sample of the material for testing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Good morning, Madam, I have a sample of Swan Soap for you".

The New Yorker

They smiled at each other, and the girl said, "I have a sample for you".

The New Yorker

Variable-pressure scanning electron microscopes have a sample chamber large enough to hold the Nageswarans' object.

The New Yorker

I could have a sample script and storyboards on your desk first thing Monday a.m.

The New York Times

We still have a sample of just one, our own planet.

The New York Times

I also have a sample of a more autumnal one which is lovely, confusingly called 600 Plum (£25).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

(I have a sample of his saliva I scraped off the Constitution after he spat on it for several minutes).

The New Yorker

One evening, only abstinence by some dieters made it possible for the rest of us to each have a sample.

The New York Times

If you have a sample of Fe60, after 2.6 million years, half of it will have decayed.

The Guardian

To confirm this, have a sample taken and sent to a microbiology lab for culture and antibiotic sensitivities.

The Guardian - Travel

"Traditional scholars who work at small scale never like to admit they may have a sample bias or a problem of generalisation," he says.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In marketing contexts, emphasize the benefits of letting customers "have a sample", such as increased product awareness and trial rates.

Common error

Avoid using "have a sample" when you simply mean "have an example". A "sample" implies a representative part of a larger whole, while an "example" illustrates a concept or idea. Using the wrong term can lead to misunderstanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have a sample" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the possession or availability of a specimen for analysis or evaluation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have a sample" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression widely used across diverse contexts. As Ludwig AI states, it is suitable for indicating possession or acquisition of a specimen for analysis, testing, or demonstration. Its prevalence in news, scientific, and formal communications underscores its adaptability. Remember to distinguish between "sample" and "example", and always clarify the source and method of obtaining the sample in research contexts. With its neutral formality and widespread acceptance, "have a sample" is a reliable phrase for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

possess a sample

Focuses on the state of ownership rather than the act of obtaining.

own a sample

Emphasizes ownership, similar to "possess a sample", but more concise.

acquire a sample

Highlights the action of getting a sample, rather than already having it.

obtain a sample

Similar to "acquire a sample", but slightly more formal.

receive a sample

Implies that the sample was given by someone else.

get a sample

More informal way of saying "obtain a sample".

secure a sample

Suggests effort was required to obtain the sample.

collect a sample

Specifically refers to gathering a sample, often in a scientific or research context.

be in possession of a sample

A more elaborate and formal version of "possess a sample".

take a sample

Focuses on the action of extracting or taking a sample from a larger source.

FAQs

How can I use "have a sample" in a sentence?

You can use "have a sample" to indicate possession or acquisition of a portion of something for testing, examination, or trial. For example, "Before we proceed with the analysis, please ensure that we "have a sample" of the material for testing."

What's the difference between "have a sample" and "get a sample"?

"Have a sample" implies possession, while "get a sample" ("get a sample") focuses on the act of obtaining it. If you already possess the sample, use "have a sample". If you are in the process of obtaining it, use "get a sample".

What can I say instead of "have a sample"?

Alternatives include "possess a sample" ("possess a sample"), "own a sample" ("own a sample"), or "acquire a sample" ("acquire a sample"), depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it formal to say "have a sample"?

The phrase "have a sample" is generally considered neutral in formality and is suitable for various contexts, including formal, informal, and professional settings. The level of formality largely depends on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication.