instructive example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "instructive example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to an example meant to provide instruction or guidance. For example, "The professor gave us an instructive example of how to use the scientific method to solve a problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The East Village is an instructive example.

The New York Times

Printed circuit boards are an instructive example.

Harvard Business Review

An instructive example of this problem is housing associations.

The Guardian

The problem with housing is an instructive example.

The Guardian

Again, the United States offers an instructive example.

The New York Times

The seagull is once again an instructive example.

Yale University

One beachside home in the Hamptons makes an instructive example.

The New York Times

The high-performance realm of supercomputing provides an instructive example.

The New York Times

It was, Garment writes, an "instructive example of Richard Nixon's tenacity and work habits….

The New Yorker

Another instructive example to consider in this vein is that of Washington & Lee University in Virginia.

Princeton University

Here we turn to operating systems as an instructive example in taming management complexity.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "instructive example", ensure the example clearly illustrates the point you are making and offers a tangible takeaway for the reader. Avoid vague or complex examples that obscure the intended lesson.

Common error

Avoid using "instructive example" for examples that are already well-known or self-explanatory. The phrase implies that the example offers a unique or insightful perspective, so reserve it for situations where the example genuinely enhances understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instructive example" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific instance or case intended to provide a lesson or insight. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The example serves to clarify, illustrate, or demonstrate a particular principle, concept, or phenomenon.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "instructive example" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce an example that teaches a lesson or provides insight. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use and correctness. It is frequently found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, aiming to educate and enlighten the audience. To use it effectively, ensure that the example is clear, relevant, and truly enhances understanding. Consider alternatives like "illuminating case" or "revealing instance" to add nuance. Avoid using "instructive example" for obvious or trivial examples; save it for those that offer a unique perspective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

educational case study

Uses "case study" to specify a more in-depth analysis used for educational purposes.

illuminating case

Replaces "example" with "case" and focuses on the clarifying aspect of the instance.

revealing instance

Substitutes "example" with "instance", stressing the unveiling of information.

demonstrative illustration

Uses "illustration" instead of "example", highlighting the clarifying or descriptive nature of the instance.

informative precedent

Replaces "example" with "precedent", implying that the occurrence sets a standard or guide for future actions.

exemplary situation

Replaces "example" with "situation", focusing on a set of circumstances that serves as a pattern.

significant demonstration

Uses "demonstration" to emphasize the act of showing or proving something through the example.

telling incident

Uses "incident" instead of "example", implying that the occurrence is significant and informative.

insightful scenario

Replaces "example" with "scenario", highlighting the deep understanding provided.

valuable lesson

Highlights that the example provides a lesson.

FAQs

How can I use "instructive example" in a sentence?

You can use "instructive example" to introduce a case or situation that teaches a lesson or provides insight. For instance, "The rise and fall of that company serves as an "instructive example" of the dangers of unchecked growth."

What are some synonyms for "instructive example"?

Alternatives to "instructive example" include "illuminating case", "revealing instance", or "educational case study", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "instructive example" or "helpful example"?

"Instructive example" suggests that the example teaches a specific lesson or provides a deeper understanding, while "helpful example" simply means the example aids in comprehension. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the teaching aspect or just the helpfulness.

Can "instructive example" be used in both formal and informal writing?

Yes, "instructive example" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very informal settings, you might opt for simpler alternatives like "good example" or "clear example".