is merely one instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is merely one instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is just one example among many or to downplay the significance of that example. Example: "While this case is merely one instance of the issue, it highlights a larger trend that needs to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Moore is merely one example.

The New Yorker

But the tiger is merely one prominent example.

Vice

"This is merely one step".

The New York Times

This is merely one of them.

The New Yorker

Now Brexit is merely one of a sea of troubles.

The Guardian - Business

And this, of course, is merely one station".

The New York Times

A second issue is merely one of fairness.

The Guardian - Tech

Visual Seeking is merely one of them.

BBC

Snapchat is merely one of several companies raising huge sums.

TechCrunch

Again, this is not a requirement for replication; it is merely one form of a replicator.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

In addition, specialist density is merely one marker of availability of regular care.

Health Economics Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is merely one instance" to downplay the significance of a specific example while implying that other similar examples exist. This can be useful when you want to avoid overemphasizing a single case.

Common error

Avoid using "is merely one instance" when the example is, in fact, highly significant or unique. Using this phrase in such cases can undermine the importance of the example and confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is merely one instance" functions as a qualifier, indicating that a particular example is just one of many possible or existing cases. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct. The function can be both descriptive and limiting, setting the scope of the example within a broader context.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is merely one instance" is a grammatically sound expression used to indicate that a specific example is just one among many, according to Ludwig AI. It's most commonly found in news, scientific, and academic writing. The phrase is useful for downplaying the importance of a single case while implying the existence of similar occurrences. When writing, use this phrase to avoid overemphasizing individual examples and to provide context. However, be cautious not to use it when the example is truly unique or highly significant, as this could undermine its importance. The phrase has several alternatives, including "is just one example" and "is simply one case".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is just one example

Replaces "merely one instance" with a simpler and more direct expression.

is simply one case

Substitutes "merely" with "simply" and "instance" with "case", offering a slight variation in wording.

is only one illustration

Replaces "instance" with "illustration", emphasizing the illustrative nature of the example.

represents a single occurrence

Offers a more formal and descriptive alternative, highlighting the singularity of the event.

is but one manifestation

Uses "but" and "manifestation" for a slightly more literary and emphatic tone.

is one such occasion

Focuses on the event as an occasion, implying that similar events exist.

is a lone example

Emphasizes the isolation of the example, suggesting it is not part of a larger pattern.

is uniquely one situation

Highlights the uniqueness of this one situation among others.

exemplifies a single item

Replaces "instance" with a more concrete noun, referring to one item among many.

is a solitary incident

Emphasizes the isolated and infrequent nature of the incident.

FAQs

How can I use "is merely one instance" in a sentence?

Use "is merely one instance" to indicate that something is just one example of a broader trend or issue. For example, "This error "is merely one instance" of a larger systemic problem".

What are some alternatives to "is merely one instance"?

You can use alternatives like "is just one example", "is simply one case", or "is only one illustration" depending on the context.

When should I use "is merely one instance" instead of "is the only instance"?

"Is merely one instance" implies that there are other similar occurrences, while "is the only instance" indicates that there are no others. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the situation you are describing.

Is it appropriate to use "is merely one instance" in formal writing?

Yes, "is merely one instance" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider the specific context and audience to determine if a more concise or direct alternative, such as "is just one example", would be more effective.