let me make an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let me make an example" is not correct in standard English; it should be "let me give an example" or "let me provide an example." You can use it when you want to clarify a point or illustrate something with a specific instance.
Example: "To clarify my point about teamwork, let me give an example: last year, our project succeeded because everyone collaborated effectively."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Let me make an example – maybe if you give me $100, I am rich here in South Africa, you see, I am rich.

Globalization and Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Before we go further, let me make an admission.

The New York Times

Let me make an analogy.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

For example, the team let me make a couple punches using gloves with sensors inside, which were created for the mixed martial arts league UFC.

TechCrunch

Let me make a larger point, however.

The New York Times

"Let me make a quick call".

The Guardian - Sport

"Let me make a point about safety glasses," another added.

The New Yorker

So let me make a political statement, boys and girls".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Let me make a confession.

Forbes

"Just let me make you a sandwich now.

The New Yorker

Let me make you a solemn promise for 2008.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Instead of using the phrase "let me make an example", opt for grammatically correct alternatives such as "let me give an example" or "let me illustrate". This will enhance the clarity and credibility of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "make an example" when introducing an illustrative case. The correct phrasing is typically "give an example" or "provide an example". Using "make" in this context is grammatically unconventional and can confuse readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let me make an example" is intended to introduce an illustrative case or scenario. However, Ludwig AI points out that it's not standard English. The intended function is to clarify a point by providing a concrete instance, but the wording is grammatically flawed.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "let me make an example" is generally considered grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI suggests using alternatives like "let me give an example" or "let me illustrate" for clarity and correctness. While the intent is to clarify or support a point, it's best to avoid this phrase in formal writing. Its infrequent usage and the availability of better alternatives make it a less desirable choice for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let me give an example

Replaces "make" with "give", resulting in a grammatically correct and standard expression.

let me provide an illustration

Substitutes "make an example" with "provide an illustration", offering a more formal and precise alternative.

allow me to demonstrate

Offers a more formal way to introduce an example, focusing on demonstration.

let me illustrate this point

Replaces "make an example" with "illustrate this point", which is direct and clear.

consider this case

Provides a direct way to introduce an example for consideration.

to illustrate, let's consider

Adds an introductory phrase for clarity before presenting the example.

for instance, imagine

Uses "for instance" to introduce a hypothetical example or scenario.

as an example, think about

Starts with "as an example" for directness.

by way of example

A slightly more formal introductory phrase.

let's say, for the sake of argument

Introduces a hypothetical example for the purpose of discussion.

FAQs

What is the correct way to introduce an example?

Instead of saying "let me make an example", it is more appropriate to say "let me give an example" or "let me provide an example". These alternatives are grammatically correct and widely accepted.

What can I say instead of "let me make an example"?

You can use phrases like "let me illustrate", "consider this case", or "for instance" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "let me make an example" or "let me give an example"?

"Let me give an example" is the correct and commonly used phrase. "Let me make an example" is grammatically incorrect.

When can I use "make an example of"?

The phrase "make an example of" is typically used when someone is being punished as a warning to others. For instance, "They wanted to make an example of him to deter others from committing similar crimes." This is different from providing a clarifying instance.