let's see an example

USAGE SUMMARY

"Let's see an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest that you and your readers look at a relevant example. For example: "Let's see an example of how this type of algorithm works."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

To have a clear understanding for this idea, let's see an example, a matrix whose structure is like that showing in the following table.

BMC Genomics

Let's see an example of iterating the value of IRR by trail and error method: Lets take 'r' in the above example as.10 and calculate NPV.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Let's see, for example what leadership looks like at General Motors.

The Guardian

Now, let's see... is there an example from Iran and America's recent past that fits that definition?

Huffington Post

Let me offer a few examples, and then let's see if we can identify any principles at work behind the phenomenon.

Huffington Post

Let's consider an example problem.

WikiHow

Let us see an example at first.

EURASIP Journal on Audio, Speech, and Music Processing

Let us see an example of arcwise connected cone-quasiconvex set-valued map.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Let us see an example: HLA genes are indicative of cell maturation marking the cell so it is recognised by the immune system [ 15].

BioMed Research International

Let's use an example.

Science Magazine

The D40's new advanced help menu with "assist images" lets you see an example of the results before you take the picture.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "let's see an example" to clearly signal that you are about to provide a specific instance to support your point, ensuring clarity for the reader.

Common error

While "let's see an example" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal academic or business writing. Opt for more sophisticated transitions like "for instance" or "to illustrate" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let's see an example" functions as a transitional phrase, guiding the reader or listener to a specific instance that clarifies or supports a point. This aligns with Ludwig's assessment of the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "let's see an example" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to introduce an illustrative instance. As Ludwig highlights, it serves as a transitional phrase, guiding the audience to a concrete example. While versatile, its informality should be considered, particularly in highly formal contexts where alternatives like "for instance" might be more suitable. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, reflecting its broad applicability. Overall, it's a reliable and effective way to enhance clarity and understanding in writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let's consider an illustration

Substitutes "example" with "illustration" for a slightly more formal tone.

let's look at a case in point

Replaces "example" with "case in point", emphasizing a specific instance.

let's examine a scenario

Uses "scenario" instead of "example", focusing on a hypothetical situation.

let's take a look at an instance

Rephrases to "take a look at an instance", providing a slightly different emphasis.

for instance, let's consider

Inverts the structure, placing "for instance" at the beginning for emphasis.

let's investigate a particular case

Replaces "see" with "investigate" and "example" with "particular case", suggesting a deeper analysis.

consider this example

Shortens the phrase, omitting "let's see" for brevity.

to illustrate, let's analyze

Adds "to illustrate" for a more formal introduction to the example.

suppose we consider this

Introduces a hypothetical situation using "suppose", instead of directly referencing an example.

by way of example, let's review

Uses "by way of example" for a more elaborate introductory phrase.

FAQs

How can I use "let's see an example" in a sentence?

You can use "let's see an example" to introduce a specific instance that clarifies or supports your point. For example: "Let's see an example of how this principle applies in practice."

What are some alternatives to "let's see an example"?

You can use alternatives like "for instance", "to illustrate", or "consider this example" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "let's see an example"?

"Let's see an example" is appropriate when you want to guide your audience through a specific instance to help them understand a concept or argument. It's suitable for both informal and semi-formal contexts.

Is "let's see an example" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, "let's see an example" might be considered slightly informal for highly academic writing. In such cases, consider using more formal alternatives like "for instance" or "to illustrate".