to show by example

USAGE SUMMARY

"to show by example" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to illustrate how something is done or how something works. For example, "John showed by example how to be a good leader, and inspired his team to do their best work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Although Moses has met these editors and managers, he wishes to show by example rather than acting as a persuader on behalf of publishers.

The Guardian

They do it to put a face on an often-frightening or misunderstood medical condition, to show by example how these illnesses are survivable.

The New York Times

I had gone to the former Eastern Bloc shortly after graduate school on a United States government fellowship, and I felt it my duty to show by example how the free world worked.

The New York Times

So my first thing is to show by example and pull a guy in like Puff [Daddy].

Forbes

She wanted to show by example that "a woman could be as good as a man".

Huffington Post

There were no role models in your immediate community to show by example what was possible.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Positive role models devoted more time to showing by example, the importance of the doctor-patient relationship, and the psychosocial aspect of medicine [ 7]. "Our tutor was a consultant and had an excellent manner with patients.

BMC Medical Education

"My goal is to show by the example of secretprojectrevolution my creative commitment to inspire change in the world through artistic expression.

TechCrunch

I thought this worth the trouble of noting here, in order to show by this example how much the knowledge of singular things I have called intuitive, or knowledge of the third kind (see 2P40S2), can accomplish, and how much more powerful it is than the universal knowledge I have called knowledge of the second kind.

Johns Hopkins University

We aim to show by these examples that the various forms of Kurdish pastoralism express themselves far beyond Frölin's classifications.

Pastoralism: Research, Policy and Practice

Words that you are going to live and show by example.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to show by example", ensure that the example you are referencing is clear and directly relevant to the point you are making. Clarity enhances the effectiveness of your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "to show by example" as a substitute for concrete, actionable steps. Instead of stating intentions, demonstrate them directly with specific actions. For instance, instead of saying "I will show integrity by example", demonstrate integrity through specific actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to show by example" functions as an infinitive phrase that often serves as an adverbial of purpose. It modifies a verb, explaining the reason or method behind an action. Ludwig AI confirms its usability for illustrating or demonstrating something.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to show by example" is a grammatically sound and useful construction for emphasizing the importance of demonstrating actions over merely stating intentions. Ludwig AI confirms that. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts. Alternatives include "to illustrate by one's actions" or "to lead by demonstration". A key writing tip is to ensure the example is directly relevant and clear. While generally neutral to professional, avoid using the phrase as a substitute for tangible, concrete actions. Overall, "to show by example" is a valuable tool for emphasizing leadership and teaching through demonstrable conduct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to demonstrate through action

Focuses on the act of demonstrating, rather than just showing.

to illustrate by one's actions

Emphasizes that the illustration is done through personal conduct.

to exemplify with behavior

Highlights behavior as the means of exemplifying.

to lead by demonstration

Indicates leadership through the act of demonstrating.

to teach through conduct

Focuses on teaching, using conduct as the method.

to model through actions

Highlights the act of modeling a particular behavior or skill.

to present an acting illustration

Changes the structure to a presentation of illustration through acting.

to give a practical demonstration

Shifts emphasis to a hands-on, real-world showing of a principle.

to offer behavioral insight

Changes the emphasis to providing insight based on exhibited behavior.

to represent by personal behavior

Highlights that personal behavior is the representing factor.

FAQs

How can I use "to show by example" in a sentence?

You can use "to show by example" to indicate that someone is demonstrating a principle or skill through their actions rather than just explaining it. For instance, "The mentor used real-world projects "to show by example" how to apply theoretical knowledge."

What does it mean "to show by example"?

The phrase "to show by example" means to teach or demonstrate something through one's actions or behavior, rather than just explaining it with words. It emphasizes learning or understanding through observation and imitation.

Which is correct, "to show by example" or "to demonstrate by example"?

Both "to show by example" and "to demonstrate through action" are correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Demonstrate" might imply a more active and deliberate showing.

What can I say instead of "to show by example"?

You can use alternatives like "to illustrate by one's actions", "to teach through conduct", or "to lead by demonstration" depending on the context.