perfect specimen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "perfect specimen" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that embodies the ideal qualities or characteristics of a particular type or category. Example: "The biologist referred to the rare butterfly as a perfect specimen of its species, showcasing all the vibrant colors and patterns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"I found a perfect specimen".

The New Yorker

Miranda is the perfect specimen.

The Guardian - Books

He thought of himself as a perfect specimen".

The New Yorker

Levere's idea of the "perfect specimen" reveals imperfect asymmetries.

The New Yorker

They became — gentle, alcoholic Ogarev for a time was a perfect specimen — "superfluous men".

The New Yorker

In both good ways and bad, Wolper's book is a perfect specimen of the mogul memoir.

The New Yorker

He has been described as the perfect specimen of the Byzantine pedant.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Alina is a perfect specimen of the "nothing-specialness" essential to the book's central theme.

The New York Times - Books

When Bentley captured a perfect specimen, he lifted it with a broom splint, then flattened it with a wing feather.

The New York Times - Travel

The writing is so fine throughout that it's almost a crime to single out "Everything Beautiful Is Far Away" as a perfect specimen.

The New York Times - Books

"Look at our phone," he offered by way of explanation, gesturing toward a perfect specimen of a 1930's telephone on his oak desk.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "perfect specimen", ensure the context clearly defines what qualities make the subject 'perfect'. This adds precision and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "perfect specimen" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "great example" or "ideal case".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perfect specimen" typically functions as a noun phrase, where "perfect" modifies "specimen". It is often used to describe something that is an ideal or flawless example of its kind, as seen in the Ludwig examples. The Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "perfect specimen" is a grammatically sound and commonly used term, typically functioning as a noun phrase. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys the idea of something being an ideal or flawless example, often found in News & Media, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. While generally considered neutral to formal in register, it's important to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in informal settings. Alternatives like "ideal example" or "prime example" offer less formal substitutes. Be sure to provide context when using the term, clarifying what specific qualities contribute to its 'perfection'.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ideal example

Focuses on the concept of being an ideal representation rather than a physical sample.

prime example

Highlights that the subject is a leading or best instance.

model representation

Emphasizes that the subject serves as a standard or pattern.

textbook case

Suggests the subject perfectly illustrates a particular principle or situation.

exemplary model

Combines the ideas of being a good example and a standard to follow.

flawless example

Emphasizes the absence of any defects or imperfections.

definitive instance

Highlights that the subject is the clearest or most authoritative case.

classic illustration

Indicates that the subject is a well-known and typical example.

gold standard

Implies the subject is the best possible example, used as a benchmark.

ultimate embodiment

Suggests the subject is the perfect and complete realization of something.

FAQs

How can I use "perfect specimen" in a sentence?

You can use "perfect specimen" to describe something that exemplifies the ideal qualities of its type. For example, "The museum curator called the fossil a "perfect specimen" of its era".

What is a less formal alternative to "perfect specimen"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "ideal example", "prime example", or "model representation".

Is "perfect specimen" always used to describe physical objects?

While often used for physical objects, "perfect specimen" can also describe abstract concepts or people who exemplify certain qualities. For instance, "He was a "perfect specimen" of dedication and hard work".

What's the difference between "perfect specimen" and "gold standard"?

"Perfect specimen" refers to something that is a flawless example of its kind. "Gold standard" implies that something is the best possible example and serves as a benchmark for others.