take an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to illustrate a point you are making. For example, you might say, "To illustrate my point, take an example of a student who was able to improve their grades with hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

let us take an example.

Cornell University

Let's take an example, house searching.

University of California, Berkeley

So, let's just take an example.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Take an example from graduate school.

Harvard Business Review

Or take an example closer to home.

The Washington Post

Take an example of a good friend of mine.

The Guardian - Opinion

Take an example from Lens, this newspaper's photography blog.

The New York Times - Science

Take an example from a recent issue of Self magazine.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I'll take an example which our British friends will understand.

The Guardian

To take an example, Germany is a much better squad.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Let me explain by taking an example.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take an example" to smoothly introduce specific cases that clarify a broader point. This phrase helps your audience understand abstract ideas by relating them to concrete situations.

Common error

Avoid using overly simplistic or common examples when you say "take an example". Opt for examples that are specific and relevant to your audience to maximize impact and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take an example" functions as an idiomatic expression used to transition into providing a specific instance or illustration to support a claim or explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

35%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take an example" is a versatile and common way to introduce an illustration or specific case in writing and speech. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including academic, news, and scientific domains. When using "take an example", focus on providing relevant, specific, and engaging instances to maximize clarity and impact. Alternatives such as "for instance" or "consider a case" can offer variety in your writing. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "take an example" to enhance understanding and strengthen your arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for instance

This alternative is a brief and common way to introduce an example.

as an illustration

This alternative clearly signals the use of an example for clarification.

consider a case

This alternative is more concise and focuses on presenting a specific situation.

examine an instance

This alternative emphasizes a detailed inspection of a particular occurrence.

let's illustrate with

This alternative makes it clear that an illustration is about to follow.

to demonstrate

This alternative is more formal and indicates that the example serves as proof.

suppose a scenario

This alternative introduces a hypothetical example for consideration.

think of a situation

This alternative prompts the audience to imagine a relevant example.

observe a situation

This alternative emphasizes observation of a real-world scenario

analyze a scenario

This alternative suggests the example will be analyzed for insight.

FAQs

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

You can use "take an example" to introduce a specific instance that illustrates a broader point. For example, "To understand the impact of climate change, "take an example" of coastal erosion in low-lying island nations."

What are some alternatives to "take an example"?

Alternatives include "for instance", "consider a case", or "as an illustration". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is there a difference between "take an example" and "give an example"?

While both phrases introduce examples, "take an example" often implies a more detailed examination or consideration of the instance, whereas "give an example" is a more general request or offer of illustration.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "take an example"?

"Take an example" is appropriate in academic papers, news articles, and professional presentations to provide clear and specific illustrations that support your arguments or explanations.