previous example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "previous example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring back to an example that has already been mentioned or discussed in the text. Example: "In the previous example, we illustrated how to solve the equation step by step."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The previous example repeated with func=median.

Harvard University

For example, the previous example should be displayed like this.

Stanford University

As the previous example illustrates, in many cases there is little the league can do.

The New York Times - Sports

You don't have to look far for the previous example where Apple's actions seemed retrograde.

The Guardian - Tech

On to a case that is a lot stronger than the previous example.

The Guardian - Sport

The previous example will have enough juice to run several audio channels.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Or in our previous example, 80*.90 to get 72.

WikiHow

This is a repeat of the previous example, except that the ancillary files are explicitly specified.

Harvard University

Now consider our previous example that of memory.

SEP

Let's add some context to our previous example.

TechCrunch

Consider the pattern from the previous example.

Algorithms for Molecular Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "previous example", ensure that the example you are referring to is clearly defined and easily identifiable within the text to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid ambiguous references by clearly stating which "previous example" you are referring to, especially when multiple examples are present in your writing. Use specific details or contextual cues to guide the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "previous example" functions as a referential noun phrase, pointing back to an earlier illustration or instance within a text or discussion. As Ludwig AI shows, it's commonly used across various domains to provide context or build upon existing information.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

30%

Science

21%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "previous example" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to refer back to an earlier illustration. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous real-world examples reveals that it is most frequently found in academic, news media, and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral register suitable for a broad audience. To ensure clarity, always make sure the "previous example" is easily identifiable in your text. Alternatives like "preceding instance" or "earlier illustration" can provide variety while maintaining a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the prior illustration

A simple substitution of "prior" for "previous", keeping the structure intact.

preceding instance

Replaces "example" with "instance", offering a slightly more formal tone.

earlier illustration

Substitutes "previous" with "earlier" and "example" with "illustration", slightly altering the emphasis.

previously shown case

Uses "previously shown" to emphasize the demonstrated nature of the example.

aforementioned case

Uses more formal vocabulary, replacing "previous" and "example" with "aforementioned" and "case".

foregoing demonstration

Employs "foregoing" and "demonstration" to provide a more sophisticated alternative.

prior situation

Replaces "example" with "situation", shifting the focus to a broader context.

the above instance

Uses "above" instead of "previous", indicating a direct reference to something immediately preceding.

as illustrated before

Changes the phrase to an adverbial clause, focusing on the act of illustrating.

the case in point

Refers to a specific example already under discussion, implying a shared understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "previous example" in a sentence?

You can use "previous example" to refer back to a specific instance that has already been illustrated or discussed. For example, "In the "previous example", we saw how this principle applies in practice."

What is a more formal way to say "previous example"?

More formal alternatives include "preceding instance", "aforementioned case", or "foregoing demonstration". These options elevate the tone and are suitable for academic or professional contexts.

Is there a difference between "previous example" and "earlier example"?

The phrases "previous example" and "earlier example" are largely interchangeable. However, "previous" implies the immediately preceding example, while "earlier" can refer to any example presented before.

Can I use "the above example" instead of "previous example"?

Yes, "the above example" is a valid alternative, especially when the example is directly above the current statement in the text. However, "previous example" is more versatile as it doesn't necessarily require the example to be immediately above.