serving as an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serving as an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to illustrate a point or provide a model for others to follow. Example: "The teacher used the student's project as serving as an example of what was expected for the assignment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

They seem to feel the responsibility of serving as an example of what it means to be a Muslim in America.

The New York Times

She cited the recently acquired oil vessel, which, besides serving as an example of how antiquities museums can still thrive, could also serve as a metaphor for the challenges of a new era.

The New York Times - Arts

The education minister says taking the pastime into classrooms will help nurture a sense of responsibility and organisation among schoolchildren, as well as serving as an example to the rest of the world.

The Guardian

I'm not comfortable serving as an example for anyone, because so many people in this country do a far better job of raising their own food than we do.

The New York Times

"It was never my intention for someone to die," Mr. Parra said, "but neither did I put a syringe or something in somebody so that they could inject the drug," adding, "I am serving as an example" to discourage other dealers.

The New York Times

It is serving as an example for a number of other postgraduate medical training programs undergoing a similar transition.

Transfusion Medicine Reviews

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The genetic code serves as an example.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Today served as an example.

The New York Times

And we must serve as an example".

The New York Times - Arts

He can serve as an example.

The Guardian

And she has already served as an example.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "serving as an example", ensure the example clearly and directly supports the point you are making. A weak or irrelevant example weakens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "serving as an example" to introduce overly complex or convoluted cases. The best examples are straightforward and easy to understand, enhancing rather than obscuring your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serving as an example" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a subject complement or part of a prepositional phrase. As Ludwig AI explains, it is generally considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serving as an example" is a grammatically sound and commonly used gerund phrase, predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is used to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a broader concept. While versatile, it's important to ensure the example is relevant and clear to effectively support the intended message. Remember to avoid "misinterpreting the purpose of an example" and choose simpler alternatives like "acting as a model" or "providing an illustration" for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acting as a model

Focuses on the role of being a standard to emulate.

functioning as a prototype

Highlights the role of being an initial design or sample.

providing an illustration

Emphasizes the act of clarifying a point through a specific instance.

setting a precedent

Implies establishing a standard for future similar situations.

exemplifying

A single-word verb that means 'to be a typical example of'.

demonstrating

Focuses on showing or proving something through an example.

illustrating

Highlights the clarifying nature of the example.

offering a paradigm

Presents a clear and typical example.

representing a case study

Frames the example as a detailed analysis of a specific situation.

portraying a depiction

Highlights the act of visually showing something through an example.

FAQs

How can I use "serving as an example" in a sentence?

You can use "serving as an example" to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a broader point. For instance, "The student's success in the project is "serving as an example" of the benefits of hard work".

What are some alternatives to "serving as an example"?

Alternatives include phrases like "acting as a model", "providing an illustration", or "exemplifying" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "serving as an example" or "serves as an example"?

The choice between "serving as an example" and "serves as an example" depends on the grammatical structure of your sentence. Use "serving as an example" as part of a gerund phrase, and "serves as an example" when the example is the subject of the verb.

How can I ensure my example is effective when "serving as an example"?

Ensure that your example is relevant, clear, and directly supports your main point. A strong example should clarify your message and make it more persuasive. Always avoid "misinterpreting the purpose of an example" in your text.