what is an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what is an example" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when asking for a specific instance or illustration of a concept. For example, "What is an example of a renewable energy source?" Alternative expressions include "can you provide an example" and "what's an instance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Example What is an example of <X>? Verification Is there any problem with the arguments about <X>? Judgment What do you like when you think of or hear about <X>? Interpretation How can <X> be used today?

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Example What is an example of (langle )X rangle )? Verification Is there any problem with the arguments about (langle )X rangle )? Judgment What do you like when you think of or hear about (langle )X rangle )? Interpretation How can (langle )X rangle ) be used today?

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

What is an example of each?

The New York Times

What is an example of foreshadowing in this chapter?

The New York Times - Tech

What is an example of a malicious photo that is mentioned in the article?

The New York Times

What is an example of how "images can also create their own version of reality" cited in the article?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Q: What's an example of a mistake you've learned from?

The New York Times

What was an example of such thinking in the response of the Sept. 11 attacks?

The New York Times

MR. SHEAR: What's an example of a trade-off or compromise that the White House should make with the Republicans in Congress?

The New York Times

TT: What's an example of that?

Huffington Post

MR: What's an example of that?

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "what is an example", ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. Specify what you need an example of.

Common error

Avoid using "what is an example" without specifying the subject. Always clarify what concept or situation you need an example for to elicit a relevant response.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what is an example" functions as an interrogative phrase used to solicit clarification or illustration of a concept. According to Ludwig, it is a correct and usable way to ask for a specific instance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what is an example" serves as a straightforward way to request clarification or illustration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. Appearing frequently across various domains, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings, it indicates its versatility. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the subject you require an example for. Alternatives like "can you give me an example" or "could you illustrate this with an example" can offer nuanced ways to solicit specific instances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can you give me an example

Replaces "what is" with "can you give me", focusing on the act of providing an example.

could you illustrate this with an example

Uses "illustrate" to emphasize the clarifying nature of the example.

what's a case in point

Replaces "example" with "case in point", implying a direct and relevant instance.

what would be a good illustration

Focuses on the quality of the example being sought.

what's an instance of this

Substitutes "example" with "instance", offering a slightly more formal tone.

how does this manifest in practice

Shifts the focus to practical application and real-world manifestation.

what's a real-world application

Specifically asks for an example that exists in reality.

can you cite an instance

Uses the word "cite" making it more formal than just provide.

what's a typical scenario

Asks for a common situation that exemplifies the concept.

what are some concrete examples

Emphasizes the need for tangible and specific examples.

FAQs

How can I use "what is an example" in a sentence?

Use "what is an example" to request a specific instance or illustration of a concept. For example, you could ask, "What is an example of a renewable energy source?" or "What is an example of foreshadowing in this chapter?"

What can I say instead of "what is an example"?

You can use alternatives like "can you give me an example", "could you illustrate this with an example", or "what's a case in point" depending on the context.

Is it better to ask "what is an example of" or "can you provide an example of"?

Both "what is an example of" and "can you provide an example of" are grammatically correct and acceptable. The choice depends on the desired level of formality and directness. The second option is usually more polite.

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

It is appropriate to use "what is an example" in writing when you need to clarify a concept, illustrate a point, or provide concrete evidence to support an argument. Use it when you need the reader to understand something through a specific instance.