merely an example

USAGE SUMMARY

'merely an example' is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you need to emphasize that something is only an example and not necessarily a definitive choice, or to express that something is not as definitive or serious as it might seem. For example, "This is merely an example of how an experiment might be conducted; there are many other possible methods."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

I suggest instead that these results are merely an example of a self-fulfilling prediction.

The New York Times

It follows, therefore, that the apparent protective effect of parachutes may be merely an example of the "healthy cohort" effect.

The Economist

Some have dismissed her Instagram use as merely an example of a young person knowing how to use a platform.

The New York Times

Writer suggests that Pittsburgh Corning is merely an example of the attitude of industry toward its employees, which they regard as just part of the equipment & machinery.

The New Yorker

During the oral argument, Justice David H. Souter brought up a similar defense, the conclusion from a lower court that the pledge's words about God were merely an example of "ceremonial deism" useful for "solemnizing public occasions".

The New York Times

It's difficult to tell whether this is merely an example (one of many in this book) of cliche-ridden writing and imprecise thinking or whether Weiss is rather wackily out of sync with his material.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

As tempting as it is to view this incident in isolation, USC is merely a case example of American universities' struggle to provide adequate services for student health and its failure to sufficiently address sexual assault.

Huffington Post

Hamas makes a point of saying it does not impose strict Islam on others but merely sets an example.

The New York Times

Merely as an example, were these 987 men the only employees of that depart-ment?

Yale University

Furthermore, Lauren Wainwright may indeed have exactly the deeper conflict of interest that Florence only hinted at and suggested by using her tweet merely as an example.

Forbes

At the second presidential debate last Sunday, he denied ever having done what he bragged about, insisting it had merely been an example of "locker room talk".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "merely an example" to clarify that a given instance is not exhaustive or definitive, but serves to illustrate a broader point or concept. This helps prevent overgeneralization or misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "merely an example" when the instance has significant implications or represents a larger systemic problem. In such cases, acknowledge the complexity rather than downplaying it as just one of many.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "merely an example" functions as a qualifier or modifier. It diminishes the perceived importance of a particular instance by framing it as illustrative rather than exhaustive. Ludwig AI indicates that this is a standard and acceptable usage in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "merely an example" is a grammatically correct expression used to downplay the importance of a specific case by presenting it as illustrative. Ludwig AI confirms its standard usage across various contexts. It functions as a qualifier, indicating that the instance is not definitive or unique, as confirmed in the Ludwig AI analysis. While "merely an example" appears across diverse sources, it's most frequent in news and media, followed by scientific publications. When writing, use this phrase to prevent overgeneralization. Alternatives include "simply an example" or "just one instance".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simply an example

Replaces "merely" with "simply", emphasizing the uncomplicated nature of the example.

just one instance

Focuses on the singular and non-exhaustive nature of the occurrence.

only an illustration

Highlights the illustrative purpose, suggesting it's not definitive.

a case in point

Indicates the item serves to demonstrate or support an argument.

a typical demonstration

Suggests the example is representative and commonly observed.

one such case

Emphasizes that the example is one of several possible instances.

a representative sample

Highlights that the example is indicative of a larger set.

an isolated instance

Points out the standalone nature of the example, possibly lacking broader implications.

purely an example

Emphasizes the unadulterated nature of the example, serving no other purpose.

a basic illustration

Implies the example is simple and intended for easy understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "merely an example" in a sentence?

You can use "merely an example" to indicate that something is just one instance among many, or to show something serves as an illustration of a broader principle. For example, "This data point is "merely an example" of a larger trend."

What are some alternatives to "merely an example"?

Alternatives include "simply an example", "just one instance", or "only an illustration". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it inappropriate to use "merely an example"?

It's inappropriate when the instance is particularly significant or representative of a larger systemic issue. Using it in such cases may downplay the importance or severity of the situation.

Is "merely an example" the same as "just an example"?

While similar, "merely an example" emphasizes the limited scope or significance of the instance, whereas "just an example" simply points out its illustrative nature.