wanted an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wanted an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a desire or request for a specific illustration or instance of something previously mentioned. Example: "During the meeting, I wanted an example to better understand the concept being discussed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

But if you wanted an example of how language itself can sleepwalk the most innocent towards racism, then here it is.

Independent

"If you wanted an example of an NHS of the people, by the people, for the people, that is what you absolutely had in Consett".

The Guardian

If you wanted an example of successful branding, the photographs in Graham MacIndoe's book All In are exemplary, in their direct and minimalist way.

The Guardian

If local governments wanted an example of what not to do, he added, they should look at the crime, terror and corruption suffered by parts of Latin America in recent decades.

The Guardian

And if you wanted an example of Total Football – or Ramba Zamba in the much more sing-song German parlance – then this was it, Vogts of all people exchanging passes with Hoeness down the inside left, then belting a shot towards the top-left corner.

The Guardian - Sport

(CGD and the Disease Control Priorities Network wanted an example for the third edition of Millions Saved, a book that documents proven successes in global health).

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Want an example?

The New York Times

You want an example?" Yes please.

The Guardian - Music

(Want an example? Monteux's star student, David Zinman).

The New Yorker

"You go look at Coalwood if you want an example.

The Guardian

"I want an example!" he hisses at the mayor in a hokey Hungarian accent.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wanted an example" when you need a specific illustration or instance to clarify a point or support an argument. It's a straightforward way to request concrete evidence.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "wanted an example". Vary your language by using alternatives like "needed a case in point" or "sought a demonstration" to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wanted an example" functions as a request or expression of a need for a specific instance or illustration. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and serves to prompt further explanation or support. Examples show it used across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wanted an example" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as noted by Ludwig AI. It's utilized to request a specific illustration or instance, mostly in the contexts of News & Media. While not exceptionally frequent, the phrase is versatile and understandable in neutral to professional settings. For writers aiming for precision, consider replacing "wanted an example" with options like "needed a case in point" or "sought a demonstration" for varied expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

looked for an instance

Uses "looked for" in place of "wanted" and "instance" instead of "example", keeping the meaning similar but changing the wording.

asked for an illustration

Replaces "wanted" with the more direct "asked for", keeping "illustration" as a more descriptive synonym for "example".

desired an illustration

Replaces "wanted" with a more formal synonym, "desired", and "example" with "illustration", altering the tone slightly.

needed a case in point

Substitutes "wanted" with "needed" and "example" with "case in point", implying a stronger necessity for the illustration.

were after a sample

Replaces "wanted" with "were after" and "example" with "sample", suggesting a representative item.

sought a demonstration

Replaces "wanted" with "sought", a more formal term, and "example" with "demonstration", suggesting a practical display.

required a clarification

Shifts the focus to needing clarification rather than just an example, implying a lack of understanding.

were in need of a precedent

Changes the focus to requiring a previous case to justify a current one, implying a legal or formal context.

craved a specimen

Uses "craved" to intensify the desire and replaces "example" with "specimen", implying a representative item for examination.

demanded an exhibition

Replaces "wanted" with the stronger "demanded" and "example" with "exhibition", suggesting a public display or demonstration.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "wanted an example" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "desired an illustration" or "sought a demonstration". These alternatives provide a more sophisticated and professional sound.

What's a more casual way to say "wanted an example"?

In more informal settings, you might say "needed a case in point" or "were after a sample" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "wanted for example" instead of "wanted an example"?

While "for example" is a common phrase, "wanted for example" doesn't quite work grammatically. It's better to use "wanted an example" or a similar alternative.

When is it appropriate to use "wanted an example" in writing?

The phrase is appropriate when you're looking for a specific instance or illustration to support or clarify a statement. It works well in both formal and informal writing, although slightly more formal alternatives exist for professional contexts.