the above example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the above example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer back to an example that has been previously mentioned or displayed in the text. Example: "As illustrated in the above example, the results of the experiment were conclusive."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the above example, we might have.

Stanford University

The above example is for a basic "level" annuity.

The Guardian - Money

The above example is the simplest possible usage of actors.

University of California, Berkeley

In the above example, this file is named /tmp/krb5cc_ttypa.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

That said, apart from the above example, male crew have mostly been collaborative, supportive and respectful.

The Guardian - Film

But the above example probably doesn't capture everything that goes on when making these calculations.

The New York Times

Take the above example of "staring at something to select it".

MIT Technology Review

However, as the above example indicates, these shortcomings cannot be blamed on air capture.

Columbia University

In the above example of the Thaxters, the model is flipped.

University of California, Berkeley

In the above example the sip-server is the most interesting.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In the above example, note that mit.edu itself is based in the United States.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the above example", ensure the example is clearly identifiable and immediately precedes the reference to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "the above example" when multiple examples are present without clearly distinguishing which one you are referencing. This can lead to ambiguity and misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the above example" functions as a demonstrative phrase, specifically to reference a previously mentioned instance within a text. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

28%

News & Media

24%

Science

23%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the above example" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to reference a prior instance in writing. According to Ludwig, it's a usable construction. It functions as a demonstrative phrase for clarity and conciseness across academic, news, and scientific contexts. While versatile, it’s crucial to ensure the referenced example is easily identifiable to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "the aforementioned example" can offer a more formal tone. Proper usage ensures clear communication and effective reinforcement of ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the aforementioned example

Replaces "above" with a more formal term meaning previously mentioned.

the preceding example

Substitutes "above" with a term that indicates sequence or order.

the earlier example

Indicates the example was presented at a prior point.

the previous illustration

Uses "illustration" instead of "example" and highlights the prior nature.

the instance above

Reorders the words slightly while maintaining the core meaning.

the foregoing instance

Uses a more formal word, "foregoing", to mean previous.

this example

Omits "above" and relies on context to clarify which example is meant.

the example cited earlier

Adds the concept of citation to the reference.

as shown in the example

Specifies that the example provides a visual or clear demonstration.

referring to the previous example

Uses a more verbose phrasing with a clear intent of reference.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "the above example" in a more formal way?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "the aforementioned example" or "the preceding example".

Is it always necessary to use "the above example" when referring to a prior example?

No, depending on the context, you can simply use "this example" if it's clear which example you are referencing.

What's the difference between "the above example" and "the following example"?

"The above example" refers to an example that has already been presented, whereas "the following example" introduces an example that is about to be presented.

Are there any situations where using "the above example" would be inappropriate?

It would be inappropriate if the example is not actually above the reference in the text or if the reference is ambiguous due to multiple examples being present.