ideal specimen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ideal specimen" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that is an exemplary example of a particular type of thing. For example, "The songbird was an ideal specimen of its species."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Is this miniature poodle truly a more ideal specimen of its breed than that Kerry blue terrier?

The New York Times - Magazine

And the novel's canonical status, the way it's practically the sacred text of American lit, makes it an ideal specimen for the show's peculiar form of magic: it brings the book back to life.

The New York Times

But recently a flock of knowledge-intensive industries has settled there, bringing renewed prosperity in its wake.Global Business Network (GBN) is an ideal specimen of the new breed, a spacious collection of "workspaces" that occupy what was once a tractor factory.

The Economist

An ideal specimen (a) should be free of contaminants such as ethane and ice crystals, (b) should have maximum number of particles within a field of view, yet the particles are sufficiently spaced, and (c) has a vitrified solution that is thick enough to contain the protein particles but thin enough to prevent excessive beam interference that reduces image contrast (Orlova & Saibil 2011).

Journal of Analytical Science and Technology

In effect, such specimens represent an instantaneous snapshot of what the particles were like in solution, a thin slab of which is "removed" and placed onto an EM grid. Figure 1 shows a schematic version of what such an ideal specimen might look like.

Biophysics Reports

Therefore, pancreatic juice is an ideal specimen for identifying new tumor markers for PDAC.

BMC Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Roundworms are ideal specimens for geneticists to play with because they grow old and die in less than three weeks.

The New York Times

The simplified nature of cartoon ideas, the way they quickly change, mutate, breed, and evolve, make them ideal specimens.

The New Yorker

This article provides an analysis of what such tests measure and proposes methods to reduce errors associated with testing smaller than ideal specimens.

Bone

In recent years, the complex three-dimensional (3D) semiconductor nanostructures have become a research focus, which are considered as basic units of future nano-devices and ideal specimens for the fundamental physical research in nanoscale.

Nanoscale Res Lett

While it is possible to determine the strength and compressibility of "ideal" specimens from numerical interpretation of laboratory tests on "nominally undisturbed" specimens, the problems related to their direct use in conventional simplified design approaches for stability and settlement predictions are highlighted.

Soils and Foundations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something as an "ideal specimen", be specific about the qualities that make it so. Provide concrete examples or characteristics that justify its designation as "ideal".

Common error

Avoid labeling something as an "ideal specimen" without clear and compelling reasons. Overusing the phrase without adequate support can weaken its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ideal specimen" functions as a descriptive term, identifying a noun (specimen) that meets the highest standards or represents a perfect example of its category. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ideal specimen" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe something that perfectly represents a particular category or standard, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, it serves to highlight exemplary qualities. When using "ideal specimen", be specific in justifying why the subject is considered ideal. For less formal settings, consider alternatives such as "perfect example" or "prime example".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perfect example

Replaces "specimen" with "example", emphasizing representation over a physical sample; interchangeable in many contexts but less formal.

prime example

Highlights that the specimen is of the highest quality or represents the best of its kind. It has a more emphatic tone.

model example

Suggests the specimen is worthy of imitation or serves as a template. The nuance is instructional.

classic case

Indicates the specimen exemplifies commonly known traits or characteristics. It's usually employed in situations that are easily recognized.

textbook illustration

Implies the specimen explains an concept, just as a textbook helps learn about topics. It has a didactic nuance.

representative sample

Focuses on how the specimen accurately reflects a broader group or category. It emphasizes accuracy and typicality.

archetypal instance

Denotes the specimen as a typical or representative example of a particular type. Usually employed in literature and philosophy.

paragon of its kind

Elevates the specimen to the best and highest standard. It usually implies moral value.

epitome of excellence

Highlights the highest degree of quality and achievement. Usually conveys success in different fields.

gold standard

Implies that the specimen is the best quality, and a point of reference for further specimens. Mostly employed in business.

FAQs

How can I use "ideal specimen" in a sentence?

Use "ideal specimen" to describe something that perfectly represents a particular category or standard. For example: "This rare bird is an "ideal specimen" of its species."

What are some alternatives to "ideal specimen"?

Alternatives include "perfect example", "prime example", or "model example", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "ideal specimen"?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight that something is a perfect or exemplary representation of its kind, often used in scientific or formal contexts.

Is "ideal specimen" formal or informal?

The term "ideal specimen" leans towards formal usage, particularly in scientific or academic writing. For more casual contexts, consider "perfect example" or "prime example".