several instances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "several instances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to multiple occurrences or examples of something. Example: "In the report, we noted several instances of miscommunication that led to project delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cites several instances.

The New Yorker

In several instances, health professionals were complicit.

The New York Times

In several instances, Beato's résumé is vague.

The Washington Post

And we've had it in several instances.

The New York Times

In several instances, Ms. Lee calls for prepared mashed potatoes.

The New York Times - Food

There have been several instances of clients being sectioned.

The Guardian

Peacekeepers were disarmed by rebels in several instances.

The New York Times

In several instances, Page-Turner decided to enter the fray.

The New Yorker

In several instances, Condé's security forces fired on protesters.

The New Yorker

In several instances, actors remain partly hidden behind that door.

The New York Times

In several instances, the Jets faced ratings obstacles.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "several instances", ensure the context provides enough information or examples to justify the 'several'. Avoid vagueness by offering specific details when possible.

Common error

Avoid using "several instances" as a filler phrase. Replace it with more descriptive language that offers specific details about the instances in question, improving clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "several instances" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or part of a prepositional phrase to indicate multiple occurrences or examples of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

20%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "several instances" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to denote multiple occurrences or examples. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. When employing this phrase, ensure adequate context and detail to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "multiple occurrences" or "numerous examples" can provide nuanced variations. As demonstrated by the numerous examples and authoritative sources, the phrase remains a valuable tool for clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

multiple occurrences

Replaces "instances" with "occurrences", emphasizing the event happening more than once.

numerous examples

Substitutes "instances" with "examples" and "several" with "numerous", highlighting the abundance of illustrative cases.

various cases

Uses "cases" instead of "instances" and "various" in place of "several", denoting a variety of situations.

a number of times

Rephrases the idea to focus on the frequency of events rather than specific instances.

many occasions

Replaces "instances" with "occasions" and "several" with "many", indicating frequent opportunities or events.

repeated situations

Emphasizes the repetitive nature of the situations, rather than just their number.

frequent events

Highlights the high frequency of the occurrences.

multiple episodes

Replaces "instances" with "episodes", which can be suitable in specific narrative or episodic contexts.

various iterations

Uses "iterations" instead of "instances", implying a process of repetition or refinement.

certain situations

Implies some cases, without highlighting a specific number.

FAQs

How can I use "several instances" in a sentence?

You can use "several instances" to indicate that something has occurred more than once. For example, "There were several instances of miscommunication during the project."

What are some alternatives to "several instances"?

You can use alternatives like "multiple occurrences", "numerous examples", or "various cases" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "several instances" or "many instances"?

Both "several instances" and "many instances" are grammatically correct and similar in meaning. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Several" implies a limited number, while "many" suggests a larger, less defined quantity.

What's the difference between "certain instances" and "several instances"?

"Certain instances" emphasizes specific cases that are being referred to, while "several instances" simply indicates that there are multiple occurrences without necessarily pointing to specific ones.