in the fourth instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the fourth instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the fourth occurrence or example in a series of instances or arguments. Example: "In the fourth instance, we see a significant change in the data that supports our hypothesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

(In the fourth instance, 2001, stocks actually fell by 10percentt over the 12-month stretch).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

From the Ministry of Finance, in the first instance.

The Economist

In the first instance, inventories increase.

The Economist

In the second instance, we meant Niger.

The Economist

Now we always believe the victim in the first instance.

The Guardian

In the first instance, what followed was the Great Depression.

The New Yorker

The big green one at Wembley, in the first instance.

The Guardian - Sport

In the first instance, Mr. Mondello is correct.

The New York Times

Email us in the first instance at [email protected].

The Guardian

In the second instance, a protester curls into a ball.

The Guardian

It's good at preventing concentration in the first instance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in the fourth instance", ensure that there are at least three previous instances clearly defined to avoid confusing the reader. For example: First..., Second..., Third.... In the fourth instance...

Common error

Avoid using "in the fourth instance" if the context doesn't clearly establish a series of events or examples. Otherwise, use phrases like "another example" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the fourth instance" functions as an adverbial phrase, specifically a prepositional phrase, that introduces a specific point or example within a sequence. Ludwig AI indicates this usage is grammatically sound. It serves to enumerate a step or occurrence, similar to using "fourthly".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the fourth instance" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce the fourth item or event in a sequence. As per Ludwig AI, it is valid and can be used effectively. While its use is rare, as only one exact example can be found. it provides a structured way to enumerate points, making it suitable for formal writing or arguments. Consider simpler alternatives like "fourthly" or "in the fourth case" for more general use. Always ensure a clear context with at least three preceding instances to maintain clarity for the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the fourth case

Replaces "instance" with "case", offering a slightly more common and generally applicable alternative.

in the fourth example

Substitutes "instance" with "example", making the phrase more explicit about referring to a specific illustration.

on the fourth occasion

Uses "occasion" instead of "instance", which can sound slightly more formal.

fourthly

Provides a concise adverbial form to indicate the fourth point in a list or argument.

as the fourth point

More explicitly frames the statement as the fourth item in a series.

the fourth time this happened

Specifies that the reference is to the fourth occurrence of an event.

the fourth situation

Replaces "instance" with "situation", which changes the tone to a description of circumstances.

in the fourth situation

Replaces "instance" with "situation", which changes the tone to a description of circumstances.

the fourth consideration

Changes "instance" to "consideration", framing the statement as the fourth factor being evaluated.

in sequence number four

Offers a more technical or structured way to reference the fourth item.

FAQs

How can I use "in the fourth instance" in a sentence?

Use "in the fourth instance" to refer to the fourth example or occurrence in a series of events or arguments. For example: "We examined three previous cases; "in the fourth instance", the outcome differed significantly".

What's a simpler way to say "in the fourth instance"?

You can use simpler alternatives like "fourthly", "in the fourth case", or "in the fourth example" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "in the fourth instance" or "fourthly"?

"In the fourth instance" is more suitable for descriptive or narrative contexts, while "fourthly" is better for formal lists or arguments. The choice depends on the tone and structure of your writing.

What's the difference between "in the first instance" and "in the fourth instance"?

"In the first instance" refers to the initial action or consideration, whereas "in the fourth instance" refers to the fourth action or consideration in a sequence. They are used to indicate position within a series of steps or events.