instances

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "instances" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a particular occurrence of something, or to refer to several examples of something. Example sentence: In some instances, the students were able to complete the assignment ahead of schedule.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sheila Scott, chief executive of the National Care Association, which represents many smaller care home providers, said care costs could in many instances be approaching two-thirds of total fees because of the growing dependency of people entering residential care.

The Guardian

And last but not least, the alleged 14 cases where the Metropolitan police terminated investigations that were implicating MPs and establishment figures and the 46 instances where similar cover-ups took place.

The Guardian

"In addition, the executing officer or a person assisting is empowered to leave a warrant premise temporarily and subsequently re-enter to continue the execution of the warrant in certain instances where, for example, the occupier returns home and the covert nature of the warrant is at risk.

The Guardian

Bakhrom Ismailov of Russia Without Racism recounted instances of discrimination against immigrants, such as locals frequently calling the police when Central Asian labourers gather for pick-up football games.

The Guardian - Sport

The number of instances of "bed-blocking" was the same as the last week, with 4,000 hospital beds unavailable for incoming patients because of delays in transfers of occupants to care elsewhere.

The Guardian

There are specific instances where the G7 could – and should – be using its collective muscle but is failing to do so.

The Guardian - Business

In some instances they may be attacked because the attacker wants access the NGO's contacts.

The Guardian

And all the other instances that police from Lancashire to south London cite as one of their growing crime areas: of people stealing to eat because they can't afford basics.

The Guardian - Opinion

Light lunches are provided in some instances and in all other cases subsided lunch options are made available in close proximity to the course.

The Guardian

Nothing, however, could have prepared me for the harrowing narrative that Mlalazi vividly presents, allowing the reader to live – and in some instances, relive – the atrocities of the genocidal Gukurahundi killings of the 1980s.

The Guardian

Yes, there are instances when volunteer positions are abused by fun-seeking individuals who are more intrigued with the idea of experiencing exotic locations and foreign cultures.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for conciseness, consider whether a simpler term like "examples" or "cases" might suffice without losing nuance.

Common error

While "instances" is a valid term, avoid overusing it, especially in formal contexts. Varied vocabulary makes your text more interesting. Consider using other synonyms like "examples", "cases", or "situations" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instances" functions primarily as a plural noun, referring to multiple occurrences, examples, or cases of something. Ludwig AI confirms that "instances" is used in various contexts to denote specific situations or events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

15%

Less common in

Opinion

5%

Lifestyle

1%

Sport

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instances" functions as a plural noun denoting occurrences or examples. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage. It commonly appears in news, business, and scientific contexts and serves to provide evidence or illustrate points. While grammatically sound, it's beneficial to vary vocabulary and consider synonyms like "examples" or "cases" for better readability and avoiding overuse. Be mindful of the subtle differences when choosing the closest substitute.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Occurrences

Focuses specifically on events or happenings.

Examples

Highlights the use of something as a representative case.

Situations

Emphasizes the context or circumstances surrounding an event.

Cases

Implies a specific instance or event being considered.

Events

Refers to specific happenings or occurrences.

Incidents

Often refers to negative or noteworthy occurrences.

Illustrations

Highlights something serving as a clarifying example.

Occasions

Suggests a specific time or event when something happens.

Circumstances

Focuses on the surrounding conditions or factors.

Manifestations

Highlights the way in which something appears or becomes evident.

FAQs

How to use "instances" in a sentence?

The word "instances" is used to refer to particular occurrences of something. For example: "There were several "instances" where the system failed."

What can I say instead of "instances"?

You can use alternatives like "examples", "cases", or "occurrences" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "instances" or "instance"?

"Instances" is the plural form of "instance". Use "instance" for a single occurrence and "instances" for multiple occurrences. For example: "This is one "instance" of the problem." vs. "There were many "instances" of the problem."

What's the difference between "instances" and "incidents"?

"Instances" refers to general occurrences or examples, while "incidents" often refers to specific, and sometimes problematic, events. You can use "instances" when talking about examples and "incidents" when talking about events that may be negative.