is only an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is only an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to clarify that what has been presented is just a sample or illustration, not the only option or the final version. Example: "This diagram is only an example of how the process works; other variations may exist."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

("To be or not to be" is only an example).

The New York Times

Again, the above citation is only an example.

SEP

Here, OCP is only an example of a communication protocol.

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

It should be pointed out that the illustration of Fig. 7 is only an example.

Petroleum Science

This is only an example of how using R-functions in order to establish new contractivity conditions.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

The study in this paper is only an example to show how to derive the threshold with the proposed method.

Protection and Control of Modern Power Systems

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

That was only "an example of legitimate qualifications," Justice David H. Souter wrote for the court.

The New York Times

"The woman who sent this video to us was only an example of a silent majority," Ms Alinejad said.

Independent

But Saab is only an extreme example of the uncertainty of the automobile industry.

The New York Times

This modification is only an initial example, as its design is amenable to incorporate many posttranslational modifications or allosteric regulations that are necessary to facilitate protein interactions.

Methods in Enzymology

Greece is only an extreme example of an unfolding seismic social shift that is challenging democracies the world over.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "is only an example", ensure that the context clearly indicates that other instances or possibilities exist. This avoids misleading the reader into thinking the presented example is exhaustive.

Common error

Avoid presenting an example as the only way something can occur, when in reality, it's just one possibility. Using phrases like "This is always the case" after providing an example can negate the clarifying effect of "is only an example".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is only an example" functions as a qualifier, clarifying that the presented instance is not exhaustive or exclusive. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It serves to limit the scope of the statement and indicates the potential existence of other instances.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

28%

Wiki

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is only an example" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for clarifying that a given instance serves as an illustration and not as an exhaustive representation. As validated by Ludwig AI, its versatility across diverse contexts makes it valuable for precision in communication. When employing this phrase, remember to provide context that supports its indicative function, preventing any misinterpretations of the example as complete or unique. While it is safe to use this expression, consider related alternatives when aiming to alter the emphasis or formality of your writing. To make your writing more precise and accurate "is only an example" is a good choice, allowing others to have the correct interpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is just one example

Replaces "only an" with "just one" for slight emphasis on the single instance.

is a case in point

Uses a more concise, idiomatic expression to indicate a relevant instance.

serves as an illustration

Offers a more formal and descriptive alternative to "is an example".

is a typical instance

Indicates that the example is representative of a larger pattern or trend.

functions as a sample

Replaces "example" with "sample", suggesting a representative subset.

is merely a demonstration

Emphasizes that the example is intended to show how something works.

represents a single case

Highlights the individuality and non-uniqueness of the example.

is a particular illustration

Similar to "is an example" but with a slight emphasis on specificity.

is one such instance

Emphasizes the existence of other similar occurrences.

exemplifies this situation

Suggests that the example serves to clarify or embody the situation being discussed.

FAQs

How can I use "is only an example" in a sentence?

Use "is only an example" to clarify that what you are presenting is just one instance out of many possibilities. For instance, "The data shown here "is only an example" of the broader trend."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "is only an example"?

Alternatives include phrases like "is just one example", "is a case in point", or "serves as an illustration". The choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is only an example"?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize that a particular instance is not the only one and that other instances might exist. It is helpful in clarifying that the presented case is representative, but not exhaustive, allowing for other possibilities to be considered.

How does "is only an example" differ from "is the only example"?

"Is only an example" implies that there are other instances, while "is the only example" states that there is no other case that can be used. They have opposite meanings. So be careful about which one to use.