let's take an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "let's take an example" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to introduce an example that helps illustrate a point. For example: "Let's take an example to illustrate how this works. Suppose you have a box with two apples in it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Let's take an example, in English: go ahead and say the elementary sentence, "It's in that green box over there," out loud.

Vice

Let's take an example, in English: Go ahead and say the elementary sentence, "It's in that green box over there," out loud.

Vice

Let's take an example, Italy's power giant Enel, which has argued hard against the EC's proposed ban.

The Guardian

But — but let's take an example that we know is going to make a difference 21st century, and that's our education policy.

The New York Times

Let's take an example of a piece of psychology research reported recently: the idea that people drink faster from curved glasses.

BBC

Let's take an example of a specific market failure impacting many of us — and nearly everyone who touches the healthcare system — that is rapidly becoming a new source of explosive growth: that of anti-microbial resistance (AMR).

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Let's take an extreme example.

Huffington Post

Horses and basketball aside, though, let's take an even stronger example.

Huffington Post

Let's take a simple example: "I love wikiHow," though there's obviously no reason to hide the fact that you love wikiHow.

WikiHow

Let's take a simple example, a wedding toast.

The New York Times

Let's take a recent example: the birth statistics from the Office for National Statistics.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "let's take an example", ensure the example directly and clearly supports the point you are making to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "let's take an example" followed by an example that does not have a clear connection to the idea you are trying to illustrate, as this can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let's take an example" serves as an imperative, directing the audience to focus on a specific instance. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness. It functions to introduce a concrete illustration intended to clarify a broader concept.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "let's take an example" is a grammatically correct and functional expression used to introduce a specific illustration for a broader point. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is explanatory, aiming to clarify concepts through concrete examples. While its register is generally neutral, it sees frequent usage in News & Media. For more formal contexts, alternatives like "for instance" or "as an illustration" are often preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

consider this example

Replaces "let's take" with a more formal invitation to consider the subsequent example.

for instance

Offers a more concise and direct way to introduce an example.

as an illustration

Provides a slightly more formal tone, emphasizing the illustrative nature of the example.

to illustrate

A more concise and versatile phrase to denote the purpose of exemplification.

by way of example

A more elaborate and slightly formal way to introduce an example.

suppose we consider

Introduces a hypothetical scenario for examination.

imagine a scenario

Invites the audience to visualize a situation that exemplifies the point.

to give you an idea

Frames the example as a means of providing insight or understanding.

think of it this way

Suggests a specific perspective or mental model for understanding the concept.

let's say we have

Introduces a hypothetical situation or element for the sake of the example.

FAQs

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

You can use "let's take an example" to introduce a specific case that illustrates a more general point. For instance, you might say, "To understand how this works, "let's take an example": consider a scenario where..."

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

Alternatives include "for instance", "as an illustration", or "consider this example". The choice depends on the desired tone and level of formality.

Is "let's take an example" formal or informal?

"Let's take an example" is generally considered neutral in formality. While perfectly acceptable in many contexts, "consider this example" or "for instance" might be preferred in very formal writing.

How can I make sure my example is effective after using "let's take an example"?

Ensure that the example is relevant, clear, and directly supports the point you are trying to make. A poorly chosen example can confuse or distract the reader.