Explanation at your level:
An example is a thing that shows you what something is like. If you say 'I like fruit,' an example is an apple. It helps you see what I mean.
When you want to explain a rule, you use an example. For instance, if the rule is 'wear a coat when it is cold,' a good example is wearing a jacket in winter.
An example is a specific case that illustrates a general point. You can use it to make your meaning clearer to others. For example, if you are discussing 'healthy habits,' you might provide an example like 'jogging every morning.'
In academic or professional contexts, an example serves as evidence to support an argument. It provides a concrete instance that validates a claim. Using a 'prime example' can strengthen your position significantly during a presentation.
Beyond simple illustration, an example can function as a paradigm or a model for others to emulate. When someone 'sets an example,' they are establishing a standard of behavior. In literature or philosophy, examples are often used to explore complex human experiences through specific, relatable scenarios.
Etymologically rooted in the concept of a 'sample' extracted from a whole, an example acts as a microcosm of a larger system. Whether in legal precedent, scientific methodology, or moral instruction, the example serves as the fundamental unit of proof and demonstration. Its usage ranges from the mundane to the profound, reflecting its deep integration into the fabric of human communication.
Mot en 30 secondes
- Example is a noun.
- It means a specific case used to illustrate a point.
- It is countable (examples).
- It is used in both formal and casual settings.
Think of an example as a bridge between a confusing idea and a clear understanding. When we talk about abstract things, it can be hard to visualize them, so we use an example to ground the conversation in reality.
Whether you are teaching a friend how to bake or explaining a complex physics theory, you are likely using examples. They act as evidence that supports your point, showing that what you are saying is true or applicable in real life.
The word example has a fascinating journey through time. It comes from the Old French word essample, which itself traces back to the Latin exemplum, meaning 'something taken out' or 'a sample.'
Historically, it was closely related to the idea of a 'pattern' or a 'copy' to be followed. Over centuries, the spelling evolved from the earlier ensample—which you might still see in very old literature—to the modern example we use today.
You will hear example used in almost every setting, from casual chats to formal academic papers. It is a highly versatile noun that pairs well with many adjectives and verbs.
Commonly, we say someone is 'setting a good example' or 'giving an example.' In professional writing, you might see phrases like 'a classic example' or 'a prime example' to emphasize that a specific case perfectly illustrates a point.
Idioms involving this word often focus on behavior. For instance, set an example means to behave in a way that others should copy. Another is make an example of someone, which means to punish someone severely to warn others not to do the same thing.
You might also hear by way of example, which is a formal way to introduce an illustration. These expressions help you sound more natural and precise when discussing conduct or logic.
The word example is a countable noun, meaning it has a plural form: examples. In terms of pronunciation, the stress falls on the second syllable: ig-ZAM-pul.
It is often preceded by articles like 'an' (e.g., 'an example') or 'the' (e.g., 'the example'). It is a very common word, so mastering its placement in a sentence is a great step toward fluency.
Fun Fact
The word originally had an 'n' (ensample), but it was dropped over time.
Pronunciation Guide
Starts with a short i sound, followed by a long 'ah' sound in the middle.
Starts with a short i sound, followed by a flat 'a' sound like in 'cat'.
Common Errors
- Misplacing the stress on the first syllable
- Pronouncing the 'x' as a 'ks' instead of 'gz'
- Mumbling the final 'ple' sound
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read
Easy to use
Commonly used
Very common
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Avanc
Grammar to Know
Countable Nouns
an example/two examples
Articles (a/an)
an example
Subject-Verb Agreement
The example shows...
Examples by Level
This is an example.
Give me an example.
An example of a color is red.
I need an example.
Is this a good example?
Look at this example.
Here is an example.
One example is enough.
Can you provide an example?
That is a perfect example.
Give me an example of your work.
He is a bad example for kids.
Read the example in the book.
This is a classic example.
Do you have another example?
Follow his example.
This serves as an example of his skill.
Could you give me a concrete example?
Let me show you an example of how it works.
His success is a great example for us all.
I will use this as an example in my report.
There are many examples of this in history.
Can you cite an example?
I need an example to understand the rule.
He set an example by arriving early every day.
This is a prime example of modern architecture.
They decided to make an example of him to stop the cheating.
By way of example, consider the following case.
The teacher used a real-life example to explain the theory.
Her work is an excellent example of dedication.
There is no better example of this trend.
The article provides several examples of the phenomenon.
His lifestyle is an example of pure minimalism.
The incident stands as a stark example of poor planning.
She is an example of what can be achieved with hard work.
The book is a shining example of 19th-century literature.
He is a living example of the power of persistence.
The data provides a clear example of the market shift.
It is a textbook example of a failed strategy.
We need a definitive example to prove the hypothesis.
The cathedral is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.
He acted as an example to the entire community.
The case serves as a cautionary example for future generations.
Such behavior is an example of the highest moral standards.
The painting is a quintessential example of the artist's style.
They hold him up as an example of true leadership.
This is an example par excellence of his unique talent.
The report offers a compelling example of systemic change.
Collocations courantes
Idioms & Expressions
"set an example"
to behave in a way that others should copy
She sets a great example for her younger siblings.
neutral"make an example of"
to punish someone to warn others
The boss made an example of him to stop the lateness.
formal"by way of example"
as an illustration
By way of example, consider the economy.
formal"for example"
used to introduce an instance
I like fruit; for example, apples.
neutral"take for example"
to use someone or something as an instance
Take, for example, the way he works.
neutral"lead by example"
to show others how to act by doing it yourself
A good captain leads by example.
neutralEasily Confused
similar sound/spelling
sample is physical, example is abstract
A sample of blood vs. an example of bravery.
similar meaning
instance is a specific occurrence
An instance of error vs. an example of success.
same root
exemplar is a person/model
He is an exemplar of kindness.
same root
this is the verb form
His work exemplifies his passion.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + verb + an example of + noun
This is an example of art.
For example, + clause
For example, I like coffee.
Subject + set + an example + for + object
She sets an example for us.
Subject + cite + an example + from + source
He cited an example from the text.
It is a prime example of + noun
It is a prime example of skill.
Famille de mots
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Apparenté
How to Use It
9
Formality Scale
Erreurs courantes
Example is a noun only.
It is a countable noun.
They have different nuances.
Use singular for one instance.
Example implies teaching/illustrating.
Tips
Memory Palace
Imagine a giant 'E' in your room filled with pictures of things you want to remember.
Native Speaker Habit
Natives often use 'for example' to pause and think.
Leadership
In the US, 'leading by example' is highly valued.
Article Rule
Remember: vowel sound = 'an'.
The 'gz' sound
Make sure to voice the 'x' as 'gz'.
Don't verb it
Never say 'he exampled me'.
History
It used to be 'ensample'.
Active Recall
Write a sentence using 'example' every morning.
Countable
Always check if you need the plural 's'.
Professionalism
Use 'exemplary' to describe excellent work.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Ex-am-ple: I 'ex' (out) an 'am' (sample) to explain.
Visual Association
A teacher pointing to a picture on a whiteboard.
Word Web
Défi
Try to use the word 'example' three times today in conversation.
Origine du mot
Latin
Original meaning: Something taken out or a sample
Contexte culturel
None, it is a neutral term.
Commonly used in school settings and professional presentations.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
At school
- Give me an example
- Follow the example
- Is this a good example?
At work
- Set an example
- Provide an example
- A classic example
In discussions
- For example
- Take for example
- Can you cite an example?
In writing
- This is an example of
- By way of example
Conversation Starters
"Can you give me an example of your favorite hobby?"
"Who is a person that sets a good example for you?"
"What is an example of a rule you find difficult?"
"Can you provide an example of a time you were happy?"
"What is an example of a great invention?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a person who is a good example for you.
Describe an example of a time you learned something new.
Why is it important to set an example for others?
Give an example of a goal you want to achieve this year.
Questions fréquentes
8 questionsNo, it is a noun. Use 'exemplify' for the verb form.
Just add an 's' to get 'examples'.
Yes, it is very common in formal writing.
Example is for ideas/cases; sample is for physical objects.
Always 'an example' because it starts with a vowel sound.
Yes, 'instance' or 'illustration' are good ones.
ig-ZAM-pul.
Yes, if you want more than one.
Teste-toi
Can you give me an ___?
The context asks for an illustration.
What does 'set an example' mean?
It means to be a model for others.
Example is an uncountable noun.
It is countable; we can say 'examples'.
Word
Signification
These are common collocations.
Subject-verb-object structure.
Score : /5
Summary
An example is a bridge that turns a confusing idea into a clear, understandable reality.
- Example is a noun.
- It means a specific case used to illustrate a point.
- It is countable (examples).
- It is used in both formal and casual settings.
Memory Palace
Imagine a giant 'E' in your room filled with pictures of things you want to remember.
Native Speaker Habit
Natives often use 'for example' to pause and think.
Leadership
In the US, 'leading by example' is highly valued.
Article Rule
Remember: vowel sound = 'an'.
Exemple
Can you give me an example of a cold country?
Related Content
Apprendre en contexte
Expressions liées
Plus de mots sur Communication
aah
A1C'est un son qu'on fait pour exprimer le soulagement, la satisfaction ou le plaisir. On peut aussi le dire si on a mal ou si on est surpris.
accentuate
C1To make a particular feature of something more noticeable or prominent. It is frequently used to describe how one thing emphasizes the beauty, importance, or intensity of another.
acknowledgment
B2An acknowledgment is the act of accepting or admitting that something is true, or a formal statement confirming that something has been received. It can also refer to a public expression of thanks for someone's help or contribution.
actually
B1Actually is used to emphasize that something is a real fact or the truth, often contrasting with what was thought or said. It can also be used to introduce a surprising piece of information or to gently correct someone.
address
A2S'adresser directement à quelqu'un ou s'occuper d'un problème. On l'utilise aussi pour parler d'un discours ou pour écrire une adresse sur un courrier.
addressee
B2The person or organization to whom a letter, package, or message is addressed. It refers to the intended recipient of a piece of communication.
adlocment
C1Describes a style of communication or behavior that is formal, directed, and oratorical in nature, specifically pertaining to a public address or a declamatory speech. It is used to characterize language that is intentionally designed to be heard by an audience for the purpose of instruction or inspiration.
adloctude
C1Un style de communication formel et direct. Cela implique d'être accessible tout en conservant une présence autoritaire et professionnelle.
admonish
C1To firmly warn or reprimand someone for their behavior, or to advise someone earnestly to do or avoid something. It often implies a sense of moral guidance or authoritative concern rather than just anger.
adpassant
C1To mention or address a secondary topic briefly and incidentally while focused on a primary task or discussion. It describes an action that occurs seamlessly 'in passing' without disrupting the main narrative or workflow.
