only an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to clarify that what you are presenting 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

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Instead, Goldman provided only an example of its losses.

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

It was truly a remarkable editorial decision - but surely only an example of the peculiarly prudish nature of the US.

The Guardian

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

Independent

It is accompanied by a glossary of the juridical lexis that is not only an example but forms the very basis of the researc project.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Caillou has such a game, but this is offered only as an example.

WikiHow

He presents it only as an example of the "vanities" logic deals with.

SEP

He emphasized that the computation was intended only as an example.

Los Angeles Times

Tony Blair's inability to control Gordon Brown was only an extreme example of a common phenomenon.

The Guardian - Opinion

The numbers in that country are only an extreme example of a more general problem.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only an example" to clarify that you are providing a specific instance for illustrative purposes, not as an exhaustive representation of a topic. This helps manage expectations and encourages further exploration.

Common error

Be careful not to use "only an example" in situations where the example is, in fact, the primary or definitive case. Using it inappropriately can diminish the importance or uniqueness of the subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only an example" functions as a qualifier, limiting the scope of a preceding statement. It serves to clarify that what is being presented is a singular case used for illustration, not a comprehensive overview. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Academia

12%

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only an example" is a versatile phrase used to clarify that a given instance is illustrative rather than exhaustive. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, from News & Media to Science and Wiki sources. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intention to provide a representative case, and avoid implying exclusivity where it doesn't exist. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "only an example" to enhance clarity and manage expectations in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just an illustration

Replaces "example" with a more visually oriented term.

merely a sample

Substitutes "example" with "sample", emphasizing representativeness.

simply an instance

Uses "instance" instead of "example", highlighting a particular occurrence.

solely a demonstration

Replaces "example" with "demonstration", suggesting a teaching purpose.

purely a representation

Emphasizes that the example stands for something larger.

just a case in point

More idiomatic expression implying a supporting instance.

but one illustration

Highlights the singularity of the example among many.

one such instance

Indicates a singular occurrence of a broader phenomenon.

a single instance

Emphasizes the singleness and individuality of the event.

a representative case

Suggests the example accurately reflects typical characteristics.

FAQs

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

You can use "only an example" to clarify that what you are presenting is just a sample or illustration and that other possibilities may exist. For instance, "This diagram is "only an example" of how the process works; other variations may exist."

What can I say instead of "only an example"?

You can use alternatives like "just an illustration", "merely a sample", or "simply an instance" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "only an example"?

Yes, the phrase "only an example" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English to indicate that something is being presented as a single instance for illustrative purposes, rather than the complete picture.

What is the purpose of using the phrase "only an example" in writing?

The purpose of using ""only an example"" is to provide clarity and avoid misinterpretation by emphasizing that the information given is not exhaustive or definitive but rather a specific instance to illustrate a broader concept or situation.