in what instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "in what instance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you would like to ask for a specific, relevant example in order to understand a certain situation better. For example, "In what instance did you observe the behavior you described?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

To get started, you simply select what region you want to run your server in, what instance type you need and whether you want to install any additional software packages like WordPress, Drupal and Magento, or an email, database or FTP server.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Thus, articles 148a and 165a of the Law on Agriculture stipulate in what instances precautionary measures can be taken, what form these may take and how long they are to apply.

Environmental Sciences Europe

It is unclear how institutes will implement the directive, how the presidium plans to use the information, or in what instances foreign activities will be reported to the KGB's successor agency, the Federal Security Service FSBB).

Science Magazine

But in what instances would someone need medicine to regulate the emotions they experience around love?

Vice

Thus, it is now critical to quantify how this lack of resolution influences the metrics of phylogenetic diversity and dispersion and in what instances do we compromise the greatest amount of statistical power.

Plosone

In what universe, for instance, is Sky's A League of Their Own a better comedy and entertainment programme than Graham Norton's chatshow?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In what way, for instance, did those men of the revolutionary era prepare the ground for the Pentagon to loose its spy drones from our distant war zones over the United States?

The Guardian

a given object of inquiry and/or its attributes belong, or whether and in what sense for instance motion (or rest) may be predicated of it.

SEP

In what other business, for instance, would the following exchange pass for industry small talk?

The New York Times

This is quite particular in what it wants, for instance it ignores BA287 but if your message says British Airways 287, it recognises this and tells you if the latest flight with that code is late or on time, for instance.

Independent

Indeed, in what was a rare instance of 19th-century federal disaster relief, the Hayes admininstration without Congressional authorization ordered the Army to distribute tents, blankets and food to those rendered destitute by the yellow fever epidemic.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in what instance", ensure the context provides sufficient background for the question to be easily understood. Be specific about what you are seeking an example for.

Common error

While "in what instance" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "when" or "where" depending on the context for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in what instance" functions as an interrogative phrase used to solicit specific examples or occurrences. As Ludwig AI points out, it seeks a precise demonstration of a situation or event.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in what instance" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that serves to solicit specific examples or occurrences. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase finds its place in various contexts, primarily news and media, science, and encyclopedias. While grammatically correct, it tends to be more formal, so consider the audience and context when using it. Opt for simpler alternatives like "when" or "where" in more informal settings. To enhance your writing, use this phrase when precision and clarity are key, and always ensure the context provides adequate background for the question to be easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under what circumstances

Focuses on the conditions or situations where something occurs, rather than the specific occurrence itself.

in which situation

Emphasizes the specific scenario or context where something happens.

when is it appropriate

Highlights the suitability or correctness of something happening at a certain time.

on what occasion

Refers to a specific event or celebration, rather than a general instance.

in what scenario

Similar to "in which situation", but often used in hypothetical or speculative contexts.

in what event

Focuses on a particular occurrence, especially one of significance.

under what conditions

Highlights the necessary prerequisites or factors for something to occur.

when would it be suitable

Explores the appropriate timing for a particular action or event.

in what respect

Focuses on a particular aspect or detail being considered.

how does it apply

Questions the relevance or implementation of something in a specific situation.

FAQs

How can I use "in what instance" in a sentence?

You can use "in what instance" to ask for a specific example of something. For example, "In what instance did the error occur?"

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

Depending on the context, you could use simpler alternatives such as "when", "where", or "in what situation".

Is "in what instance" more formal than "when"?

Yes, "in what instance" is generally more formal and suitable for professional or academic writing. "When" is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Can I use "in what instance" interchangeably with "in what instances"?

While both are grammatically correct, "in what instance" refers to a single example, while "in what instances" refers to multiple examples. Choose the form that matches the number of examples you are asking about.