rare instance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rare instance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an unusual or infrequent occurrence of something. Example: "In a rare instance, the team managed to complete the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This was a rare instance of restraint.

The New York Times

It's a rare instance of self-awareness.

The Guardian

It was a rare instance where he did get rattled.

The New Yorker

But that was a rare instance of good public relations.

The New Yorker

Or was it a rare instance of generalized organ failure?

The Guardian - Opinion

The dispute is a rare instance where environmental cleanup and human health are in direct opposition.

The New York Times

"It's a rare instance where I don't mind being with people — I even enjoy people-watching.

The New Yorker

Reverend Billy, though, is a rare instance of applying the practice powerfully in the information age.

The New York Times - Arts

There are occasional congratulatory calls and "in a rare instance" polite exchanges about mild beefs.

The New York Times - Magazine

Stephen Dean's video "Pulse" provides a rare instance of extravagant color.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a fine quotation, a rare instance when adspeak and literature unite.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rare instance", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being considered infrequent. Provide enough information so the reader understands why the instance is notable.

Common error

Avoid using "rare instance" when the situation is simply uncommon, but not genuinely rare. Overusing the phrase diminishes its impact and can make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rare instance" functions as a noun phrase, where "rare" modifies the noun "instance". It serves to identify a specific occurrence as being uncommon or infrequent, emphasizing its exceptional nature. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

14%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rare instance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe an uncommon event. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is found frequently in news, scientific, and general writing. Remember to use "rare instance" when emphasizing the infrequency and potential significance of a particular occurrence and make sure it truly is rare. Consider related phrases like "uncommon occurrence" or "infrequent case" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncommon occurrence

Focuses on the lack of frequency of an event.

infrequent case

Highlights the fact that such a situation is not seen or found so often.

seldom seen event

Emphasizes the unusual nature of the occurrence.

isolated incident

Points to the singularity and separation of the event from others.

exceptional situation

Suggests the context is beyond what's normal or expected.

untypical example

Implies the instance deviates from the norm.

an odd occasion

Underlines the strangeness or peculiarity of the event.

scarce manifestation

Emphasizes the limited number of times something appears or becomes evident.

singular happening

Highlights the uniqueness of the event.

unprecedented event

Implies that something has never occurred before.

FAQs

How can I use "rare instance" in a sentence?

You can use "rare instance" to describe an uncommon or infrequent occurrence. For example, "It was a "rare instance" where the government and opposition agreed on a policy."

What are some alternatives to "rare instance"?

Alternatives to "rare instance" include "uncommon occurrence", "infrequent case", or "seldom seen event". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a rare instance" or "the rare instance"?

Both "a rare instance" and "the rare instance" can be correct, depending on the context. "A rare instance" refers to one specific instance that is rare among many. "The rare instance" refers to a specific instance previously mentioned or understood to be unique.

What's the difference between "rare instance" and "unusual occurrence"?

"Rare instance" and "unusual occurrence" are similar, but "rare instance" often implies something not just uncommon but also significant in its infrequency. "Unusual occurrence" may refer to something simply deviating from the norm without necessarily being a particularly important event.