simply an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simply an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify that something is just a demonstration or illustration, not the final or only option. Example: "This is simply an example of how the process works, and there are many other ways to achieve the same result."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Instead, he asserted that the calls were simply an example of his friends' offering their support.

The New York Times

For traditionalists, though, that deal is simply an example of a supine approach.

The Guardian

And Mr. Seinfeld said it is simply an example of a colleague actually following his suggestions.

The New York Times

Was this the work of a kakorrhaphiophobic journalist set a challenge by his colleagues, or simply an example of glossolalia Paul Davis London* Letter appears online only.

The Economist

Many say that some online publisher's failure to cite the sources for its listicles is simply an example of bad netiquette, but in essence, it's intellectual property theft in its purest form.

The Guardian

Though agency officials say the arrangement is simply an example of the case-by-case discretion they often use, the outcome has astonished advocates and experts in immigration enforcement, and raised hopes that it signals some broader use of humanitarian release as the Obama administration vows to overhaul the immigration system.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

But it could not be admired simply as an example of virtuosity, for it was accompanied by the sounds of gunfire.

The New York Times - Arts

But the company's name may itself simply be an example of clever marketing.

The Economist

I simply offer an example.

The Guardian - Opinion

The scene can be danced simply as an example of virtuosic solos and beautiful ensemble patterns.

The New York Times - Arts

The lackeys were ordered into the boats, to steer them or simply set an example.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simply an example" to clarify that something is being presented as one possible illustration, not the only option or a comprehensive solution. This helps manage expectations and encourages further exploration.

Common error

Avoid using "simply an example" when the instance carries significant weight or has broad implications. The phrase can inadvertently minimize the importance of a crucial illustration, so use it judiciously when the 'example' truly serves as a minor case.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply an example" functions as a qualifier or an appositive. It identifies something as a representative instance, often to clarify that it's not exhaustive or definitive. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common and grammatically correct expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simply an example" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to introduce or qualify something as a single illustration among many. As Ludwig AI verifies, it's correct for use in your writing. It is found predominantly in news, science, and general contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the intent to present a non-exhaustive instance and avoid minimizing significantly important illustrations. For variations, you might use phrases like "just an illustration" or "merely a case in point".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just an illustration

Replaces 'example' with 'illustration', emphasizing the illustrative nature.

merely a case in point

Substitutes 'simply' with 'merely' and 'example' with 'case in point', adding a touch of formality.

plainly a demonstration

Uses 'plainly' instead of 'simply' and 'demonstration' for 'example', highlighting the demonstrative aspect.

clearly an instance

Replaces 'simply' with 'clearly' and 'example' with 'instance', focusing on the occurrence of something.

purely a representation

Substitutes 'simply' with 'purely' and 'example' with 'representation', suggesting a symbolic nature.

solely a manifestation

Emphasizes uniqueness, replacing 'simply' with 'solely' and 'example' with 'manifestation'.

basically a model

Uses 'basically' instead of 'simply' and 'model' for 'example', indicating a representative pattern.

fundamentally an exemplar

Replaces 'simply' with 'fundamentally' and 'example' with 'exemplar', adding a formal tone.

essentially a specimen

Substitutes 'simply' with 'essentially' and 'example' with 'specimen', implying a typical instance.

only a sample

Highlights that it's one among many, replacing 'simply' with 'only' and 'example' with 'sample'.

FAQs

How can I use "simply an example" in a sentence?

You can use "simply an example" to indicate that something is just one instance among many possibilities. For instance, "This is "simply an example" of how the process works, and there are other ways to do it".

What phrases are similar to "simply an example"?

Alternatives include "just an illustration", "merely a case in point", or "only a sample" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "simply an example"?

It's appropriate when you want to downplay the importance of a particular instance and emphasize that it's one of many. It helps to avoid overstating the case and clarifies that there could be more relevant factors.

How does "simply an example" differ from "the only example"?

"Simply an example" suggests there are other instances, while "the only example" implies that there are no others. Using one over the other dramatically changes the meaning.