was an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific instance or case that illustrates a point or concept. Example: "The experiment conducted by the researchers was an example of innovative thinking in science."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

World hunger was an example.

The New York Times

It was an example of silent luxury.

The New York Times

Today was an example of that.

The New York Times - Food

The winning goal was an example.

The New York Times - Sports

Accepting Ilona's history was an example.

The New Yorker

He was an example to us.

The New York Times

Spadea was an example of that.

The New York Times - Sports

His sensibility was an example to many.

The New York Times

And this was an example of that.

The Guardian

Aluminum tubes was an example of that.

The New York Times

She was an example of true goodness.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was an example", ensure the context clearly establishes what the example is meant to illustrate. Provide sufficient detail to make the connection explicit for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "was an example" without clearly specifying what the example pertains to. A vague reference can confuse the reader and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was an example" functions as a predicate nominative, linking the subject to a noun phrase that renames or describes it. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically sound and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was an example" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to introduce an instance that clarifies or supports a statement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to its description. Its usage is most common in news, media, and scientific contexts, indicating a generally neutral to formal register. While "was an example" is suitable for various writing purposes, ensuring a clear connection between the example and the concept it illustrates is critical. Consider alternatives like "served as an illustration" or "constituted a case in point" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

served as an illustration

Replaces "example" with "illustration", maintaining the meaning of something clarifying a point.

constituted a case in point

Uses "case in point" to highlight a specific instance that supports a broader argument.

exemplified this

Emphasizes the action of illustrating or being a typical instance of something.

represented a demonstration of

Highlights the showing or proving aspect of the instance.

functioned as a model

Suggests that something served as a pattern or ideal to be followed.

provided an instance of

Focuses on the act of supplying a specific occurrence or example.

offered an instance

Highlights an instance of the action.

showcased a clear instance of

Emphasizes visibility of the instance.

highlighted a specific instance

Focuses on instance importance.

was a manifestation

Substitutes "example" with "manifestation", suggesting something becoming apparent or obvious.

FAQs

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

Use "was an example" to introduce a specific instance or case that illustrates a broader point or concept. For instance, "The experiment conducted by the researchers "was an example" of innovative thinking in science".

What are some alternatives to "was an example"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "served as an illustration", "constituted a case in point", or "exemplified this".

Is it correct to say "is an example" or "was an example"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but the choice depends on the time frame. "Is an example" refers to something that currently serves as an example, while "was an example" refers to something that served as an example in the past.

What's the difference between "was an example of" and "was an instance of"?

While similar, "was an example of" suggests a broader representation of a category or concept, whereas "was an instance of" simply indicates a specific occurrence. The phrase "was an example of" has a stronger emphasis on representing the concept being explained.