to take one example

USAGE SUMMARY

"to take one example" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used when providing a single or specific example to illustrate a point or set of points. For example: "Many famous figures throughout history have had an impact on culture; to take one example, Alexander the Great was a major military leader during the ancient world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

France, to take one example, is on the other extreme.

The Guardian - Opinion

To take one example, this week we were on the verge of suspending our food distribution programme.

The Guardian - Opinion

To take one example, ex-General James Mattis is on the board of General Dynamics.

Vice

There are some policy questions to be worked out -- on the subject of abortion, to take one example.

The New York Times

To take one example, imagine that a couple is thinking about making an offer on a house they've just seen.

Harvard University

To take one example: In 2000, bus and rail drivers for the LA Metropolitan Transportation Agency went on strike.

Vice

There are those naked justices, to take one example.

The New York Times - Magazine

To take one example, Ivanov's anti-Semitism is handled with some degree of empathy.

The New York Times

To take one example: Vouvray can be still, sparkling, dry, medium sweet or very sweet.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"To take one example, how many American universities are going to put much effort into cassava?

The New York Times - Science

To take one example, in 1955, after Mr. Libensky met Ms. Brychtova, they began to collaborate.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to take one example" to clearly signal that you are providing a specific instance to support a broader point. This improves clarity and helps the reader understand the connection between your general statement and the evidence.

Common error

Avoid using "to take one example" repeatedly in a short passage. Vary your introductory phrases (e.g., "for instance", "as an illustration") to maintain reader engagement and prevent your writing from sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to take one example" functions as a discourse marker, specifically an exemplifier. Ludwig AI suggests that it introduces a particular instance to illustrate or support a more general statement. It signals to the reader that what follows is a specific case related to the preceding discussion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

27%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to take one example" is a versatile introductory phrase used to signal the provision of a specific illustration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various domains, including news, academia, and science. While it’s generally appropriate for neutral registers, remember to vary your introductory phrases and avoid overuse in close proximity. Consider alternatives like "for example" or "for instance" to enhance readability. Its frequent occurrence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its reliability as a writing tool.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for example

A very common and simple way to introduce an example.

for instance

A more concise way to introduce an example.

as an illustration

Highlights the illustrative nature of the example.

by way of example

More formal and emphasizes the purpose of the example.

to illustrate

Directly states the intention to provide an example.

as a case in point

Highlights that the example directly supports the preceding statement.

consider this case

Encourages the audience to focus on a specific scenario.

specifically

Introduces a precise and detailed example.

in particular

Similar to specifically, but can also indicate emphasis.

let's say

Introduces a hypothetical example for clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "to take one example" in a sentence?

Start with a general statement, then use "to take one example" to introduce a specific instance that supports your point. For instance, "Many animals have developed unique adaptations; to take one example, the chameleon can change its skin color to blend in with its environment."

What phrases are similar to "to take one example"?

You can use alternatives like "for example", "for instance", or "as an illustration" to introduce a specific instance or example.

Is it redundant to use "to take one example" after already giving an example?

Yes, it's generally redundant. The phrase signals that an example is coming. If you've already provided an example without explicitly introducing it, adding "to take one example" afterwards is unnecessary and can sound awkward.

What is the difference between "to take one example" and "specifically"?

"To take one example" introduces a single instance to illustrate a broader point. "Specifically" narrows down a general statement to a precise detail or aspect. While both can introduce examples, "to take one example" implies a broader context.