Giving Examples: For Example, Like, Such As
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use 'for example' to start sentences, 'such as' for lists, and 'like' for casual comparisons or informal speech.
- Use 'for example' or 'for instance' followed by a comma to introduce a full sentence.
- Use 'such as' to introduce specific items within a category in formal writing.
- Use 'like' for informal examples or when comparing things that are similar.
Overview
Learn how to show examples. Use 'for example', 'like', and 'such as'. These words help you speak better.
These words make your ideas clear. People will understand you better.
These words show specific things. They help you explain big ideas. 'For example' shows one clear idea.
Use 'such as' for things in a group. Use 'like' for similar things. Using them well helps you speak well.
How This Grammar Works
Formation Pattern
such as.
such as Python and Java are widely used in data science." (The examples specify which programming languages are being discussed.)
such as the stock exchange and bond markets, are complex adaptive systems." (The examples provide extra detail about financial markets, which are already a defined category.)
like painting or writing poetry in her free time." (Informal examples, often implying "similar to.")
like an upgraded version of the old one." (Meaning similar to).
Such as | [Category] such as [items]. (Restrictive) / [Category], such as [items]. (Non-restrictive) | Specifies members of a category (part of definition) |
Like | [Idea] like [items]. (Informal, often no comma) | Informal example or comparison (similar to) |
When To Use It
- Formality: Neutral to formal. Highly versatile across most registers.
- Function: To provide one or more specific cases that demonstrate the truth or applicability of a general claim. It presents a complete thought or idea as an instance.
- Nuance:
For examplesuggests that the ensuing illustration is one of possibly many, serving as a representative case. It implicitly invites the audience to consider this particular instance in depth. - Application:
- Academic writing: "The impact of climate change is evident globally.
For example, Arctic sea ice extent has significantly decreased over the past decade, affecting indigenous populations and global weather patterns." (Introduces a comprehensive, specific phenomenon.) - Professional communication: "Effective time management requires strategic prioritization.
For example, allocating dedicated blocks for high-priority tasks can prevent last-minute rushes and improve output quality." (Illustrates a principle with a practical strategy.) - Formal presentations: "Our research revealed several unexpected market trends.
For example, consumer demand for sustainable packaging solutions has seen an exponential rise in the last quarter." (Presents a key finding as an illustration.)
- Formality: Neutral to formal. Strong preference in academic, scientific, and professional writing for its precision.
- Function: To specify, enumerate, or clarify the components or sub-types of a preceding noun or noun phrase. It indicates that the items mentioned are drawn from the category.
- Nuance:
Such asimplies that the listed items are actual examples of the category, and often, though not always, that the list is not exhaustive (i.e., there are other members of the category not mentioned). - Application:
- Scientific reports: "Many neurodegenerative diseases,
such asAlzheimer's and Parkinson's, are characterized by protein aggregation in the brain." (Specifically names types of diseases.) - Technical specifications: "The system supports various input devices,
such askeyboards, mice, and touchscreens, ensuring broad compatibility." (Lists compatible devices as members of a category.) - Legal documents: "The agreement covers all intellectual property rights,
such aspatents, copyrights, and trademarks, developed during the project term." (Enumerates specific IP types.)
like for informal contexts when introducing examples, or when making comparisons. Its usage for exemplification often conveys similarity rather than strict membership, or simply a more casual tone.- Formality: Informal. Generally avoided in academic, scientific, or highly professional writing for exemplification.
- Function: To introduce a quick, often single, example in casual conversation, or to state that something is similar to another thing. When used as an exemplifier, it suggests "similar to" or "for instance" in an unceremonious manner.
- Nuance: The informal
likecan sometimes serve as a discourse marker, a verbal placeholder, or a softener. When providing examples, it carries a sense of approximation or casualness. It often implies that the example is just one idea that comes to mind, rather than a carefully chosen illustration. - Application:
- Casual conversation: "I've been trying to learn new skills,
likecoding or playing the guitar, to keep my mind active." (Informal examples, often implying 'something similar to.') - Social media posts: "What a chaotic week! My to-do list was endless,
likecleaning the entire apartment AND finishing a huge report." (Casual, expressive example.) - Text messages: "Got some great snacks,
likechips and chocolate, for the movie night!" (Quick, informal list of examples.)
For Example | Such As | Like (exemplifier) |Common Mistakes
Like and Such As for Categorical Examples- Incorrect Use of
Likefor Categorization: Incorrect:"Many large predatorslikelions, tigers, and bears are facing habitat loss." (This implies that lions, tigers, and bears are similar to large predators, but not actual large predators, which is illogical.)Correct:"Many large predatorssuch aslions, tigers, and bears are facing habitat loss." (This correctly identifies these animals as specific types of large predators.)- The Nuance of
Likeas a Comparison: Correct:"The new AI system can generate human-liketext." (Here,likecorrectly conveys similarity – the text is similar to human text, not an example of human text.)
For Example- Missing Commas Mid-Sentence:
Incorrect:"He values honesty for example integrity is crucial in his line of work."Correct:"He values honesty;for example, integrity is crucial in his line of work." (Semicolon and comma for connecting independent clauses.)Correct:"Certain virtues,for example, honesty and integrity, are foundational to leadership." (Commas for a non-essential mid-sentence insertion.)- Missing Comma After Sentence-Initial
For Example: Incorrect:"The project encountered several delays. For example the budget was unexpectedly cut."Correct:"The project encountered several delays.For example, the budget was unexpectedly cut." (A comma always follows sentence-initialfor example.)
Incorrect:"I enjoy activitiessuch asI go hiking and swimming every weekend."Correct:"I enjoy activitiessuch ashiking and swimming every weekend."Correct:"I enjoy activities;for example, I go hiking and swimming every weekend." (If you want a full clause.)
Like as a Discourse Particle/FillerReal Conversations
Observing these exemplifiers in authentic communication showcases their practical application and the subtle tonal shifts they facilitate. Here, we see for example, such as, and like in various modern contexts, from formal to informal.
- Professional Email (Formal):
- Subject: Q3 Performance Review Insights
- "Dear Team, I've compiled the key findings from our Q3 performance review. We observed significant improvements in several departments; for example, the marketing team exceeded their lead generation targets by 15%. However, there are areas requiring attention, such as resource allocation for the upcoming software migration and refining our client onboarding process. I believe focusing on these elements will optimize our Q4 productivity."
- Observation: For example introduces a detailed positive outcome, while such as precisely lists specific issues needing improvement, maintaining a professional tone.
- University Group Project Chat (Mixed Formal-Informal):
- Student A: "Okay, so for the literature review, we need to cover different theoretical frameworks. For example, should we discuss post-structuralism or critical theory?" (Using for example to pose a clear, illustrative question.)
- Student B: "Definitely critical theory. And we should also look at other relevant approaches, such as feminist critiques and post-colonial studies, if they tie into our topic." (Student B uses such as to add specific, academic examples to the category other relevant approaches.)
- Student C: "Yeah, I'm finding it hard to get through all the readings, like, there are so many articles on just one framework." (Student C uses like informally to express exasperation with the quantity of articles.)
- Social Media Post (Informal):
- "Had an amazing weekend exploring the city! We tried so many cool new places, like that little coffee shop with the pastel interior and the vintage bookstore near the university. For example, I found a first edition of my favorite novel! You should definitely check out the city's hidden gems, such as independent galleries and unique artisan markets."
- Observation: Like introduces casual, specific places. For example highlights a personal, significant find. Such as then offers more generalized categories of places to explore, maintaining a friendly, suggestive tone.
- Podcast Discussion (Conversational):
- Host: "Many entrepreneurs face burnout, especially in the early stages. For example, working 16-hour days and neglecting personal well-being can quickly lead to exhaustion." (Host uses for example to illustrate the consequences of overwork.)
- Guest: "Absolutely. It’s vital to develop coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness practices or delegating tasks, to sustain long-term productivity." (Guest uses such as to list concrete solutions.)
- Host: "Yeah, it's like, you have to realize that self-care isn't a luxury, it's a necessity." (Host uses like as an informal intensifier or to introduce a realization.)
Quick FAQ
e.g. interchangeable with for example?Yes, largely, but with a slight difference in nuance and common usage. E.g. is an abbreviation of the Latin exempli gratia, meaning 'for the sake of example' or 'for example'. It is most commonly used in formal, academic, or technical writing, often within parentheses or to introduce a non-exhaustive list of items. Unlike for example, e.g. implicitly suggests that the list provided is only a selection and not exhaustive. While for example can also introduce a non-exhaustive list, e.g. always carries that implication. Both are followed by a comma when introducing a list: "Common programming languages (e.g., Python, Java) are highly sought after." or "Common programming languages, for example, Python and Java, are highly sought after."
for instance always replace for example?Yes, for instance and for example are nearly perfect synonyms and can be used interchangeably in almost all contexts without altering meaning or formality. The choice between them often comes down to stylistic preference or to avoid repetition in longer texts. Both function as adverbial phrases and follow the same punctuation rules.
such as?The presence or absence of a comma before such as depends on whether the information it introduces is essential (restrictive) or non-essential (non-restrictive) to the meaning of the preceding noun. If the examples are critical for defining or identifying the category, do not use a comma. For instance, "Vegetables such as broccoli and spinach are rich in iron." (Here, broccoli and spinach specify which vegetables are being referred to; without them, the statement is less specific). If the examples merely provide additional, supplementary information about a category that is already clearly defined, use a comma. For example, "Leafy greens, such as broccoli and spinach, are excellent sources of iron." (Here, leafy greens is already a defined category, and the examples are extra details).
like never acceptable in formal writing?For introducing examples that are members of a category (where such as would be used), like is generally considered inappropriate in formal academic or professional writing. However, like has a perfectly formal and correct use as a preposition meaning "similar to" or "in the manner of." For instance, "The new policy operates like its predecessor, but with minor amendments." or "The scientist argued like a seasoned debater." In these comparative senses, like is entirely suitable for formal contexts. The key is to distinguish its comparative function from its informal exemplifying role.
etc.? How does it relate?Etc. is an abbreviation of the Latin et cetera, meaning 'and other things' or 'and so forth.' It is used at the end of a list to indicate that there are other similar items not explicitly mentioned, implying incompleteness. Etc. often follows a list introduced by such as or e.g. (though using both e.g. and etc. in the same list can be redundant). For example, "Our pantry stocks staples such as rice, pasta, canned goods, etc." or "Please bring your writing essentials (e.g., pens, notebooks, highlighters, etc.)." It's typically followed by a period and, if it falls mid-sentence, by a comma.
Yes, this is a grammatically correct and common usage, especially in more formal writing. The semicolon is used to connect two closely related independent clauses. When for example follows the semicolon, it introduces an illustration for the first clause, and the comma after for example maintains the flow. For instance, "The initial experimental results were inconclusive; for example, the control group showed unexpected variance." This structure indicates a strong logical connection between the two parts of the sentence.
Placement and Punctuation of Exemplifiers
| Connector | Position | Punctuation | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
|
For example
|
Start of sentence
|
Followed by a comma
|
Neutral/Formal
|
|
For instance
|
Start of sentence
|
Followed by a comma
|
Formal
|
|
Such as
|
Middle of sentence
|
Comma before (if non-essential)
|
Formal
|
|
Like
|
Middle of sentence
|
Usually no comma
|
Informal
|
|
e.g.
|
Inside parentheses
|
Periods after letters, comma after
|
Technical/Written
|
|
Including
|
Middle of sentence
|
Often preceded by a comma
|
Neutral
|
Common Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Full Latin | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
|
e.g.
|
Exempli gratia
|
For example
|
|
i.e.
|
Id est
|
That is / In other words
|
|
viz.
|
Videlicet
|
Namely / Specifically
|
Meanings
The use of specific words and phrases to introduce instances that illustrate a general statement or category.
Sentence-Level Exemplification
Using a connector to introduce a complete sentence that serves as an example of a previous point.
“The company has faced many challenges. For example, the recent supply chain issues delayed production by months.”
“Exercise is vital for health. For instance, a daily walk can significantly improve cardiovascular fitness.”
Intra-sentential Listing
Introducing a list of examples within a sentence to define a category.
“Citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges are high in Vitamin C.”
“Large predators, such as lions and tigers, require vast territories to hunt.”
Informal Comparison/Listing
Using 'like' to provide examples in casual conversation or less formal writing.
“I love spicy food, like Thai or Mexican.”
“She has a lot of hobbies, like painting and hiking.”
Written Abbreviations
Using Latin-derived abbreviations in formal or technical writing.
“The study focused on several European countries (e.g., France, Germany, and Italy).”
“Please bring the necessary equipment, e.g., a laptop and a charger.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Sentence Connector
|
Idea. For example, [Example Sentence].
|
He is talented. For example, he plays piano.
|
|
Prepositional (Formal)
|
Noun such as [List].
|
Fruits such as apples are healthy.
|
|
Prepositional (Informal)
|
Noun like [List].
|
I want a phone like yours.
|
|
Parenthetical
|
Idea (e.g., [List]).
|
Bring snacks (e.g., nuts, fruit).
|
|
Mid-sentence Break
|
Idea; for instance, [Example Sentence].
|
It's raining; for instance, look at the puddles.
|
|
Specific Identification
|
Noun, namely [Specific Item].
|
I have one goal, namely to win.
|
Formality Spectrum
One should consume nutrient-dense foods, such as kale. (Health advice)
You should eat healthy food, for example, kale. (Health advice)
You should eat healthy stuff, like kale. (Health advice)
Get some superfoods in ya, like kale and stuff. (Health advice)
The Exemplification Tree
Formal Writing
- Such as Used for lists within sentences
- For instance Used to start sentences
Casual Speech
- Like Informal comparison or listing
Like vs. Such As
Which connector should I use?
Are you starting a new sentence?
Is the context formal (essay/work)?
Register Grid
Academic
- • Such as
- • For instance
- • e.g.
Conversational
- • Like
- • For example
Examples by Level
I like pets like dogs.
For example, I play football.
I eat fruit, like an orange.
She has toys, for example, a doll.
I want to visit countries like Italy.
He is good at sports. For example, he swims well.
You need tools, such as a hammer.
I like cold drinks, for instance, iced tea.
The city has many problems, such as pollution.
There are many ways to save energy. For instance, you can turn off the lights.
I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Some animals, for example, the panda, are endangered.
Large corporations, such as Google and Apple, dominate the market.
The policy has several flaws; for example, it ignores the needs of rural communities.
You should bring identification (e.g., a passport or driver's license).
He has a lot of experience in the field, for instance, working for three years in Dubai.
The curriculum focuses on STEM subjects, such as advanced calculus and organic chemistry.
Cognitive biases, for instance, the confirmation bias, can skew research results.
The legislation was designed to curb unethical practices; for example, it prohibits insider trading.
Many modernist writers, such as James Joyce and Virginia Woolf, experimented with stream of consciousness.
The socio-economic ramifications, for example, the widening wealth gap, are profound.
The project requires specialized software (e.g., AutoCAD or Revit) for architectural modeling.
The treaty addresses several environmental concerns, namely carbon emissions and deforestation.
One might argue that certain linguistic features, such as the use of the subjunctive mood, are declining in colloquial speech.
Easily Confused
Learners use 'i.e.' when they mean 'for example'. 'i.e.' means 'that is' (clarification), while 'e.g.' means 'for example' (illustration).
Learners use 'like' to introduce a clause, but 'as' is traditionally required for clauses.
Learners use 'such as' when they are listing every single item in a category.
Common Mistakes
I like fruit for example apples.
I like fruit. For example, apples.
I like pets such like dogs.
I like pets such as dogs.
I like sports like, football.
I like sports like football.
For example I am happy.
For example, I am happy.
He has many cars, for example, a Ford.
He has many cars; for example, a Ford.
I like fruits like apples, etc.
I like fruits like apples.
Such as I said, it is raining.
As I said, it is raining.
The company sells electronics, e.g. phones.
The company sells electronics, e.g., phones.
I need a person such as can help me.
I need a person who can help me.
I like movies, for instance, horror.
I like movies—for instance, horror.
The study included several variables such as, age and gender.
The study included several variables, such as age and gender.
We discussed the main issues, namely, the budget.
We discussed the main issues, namely the budget.
He loves poets like Shakespeare.
He loves poets such as Shakespeare.
The results (i.e. the data) were good.
The results (e.g., the data) were good.
Sentence Patterns
I enjoy ___ like ___ and ___.
There are many ___; for example, ___.
The company faces several ___, such as ___ and ___.
One must consider the ___; for instance, ___.
Real World Usage
Several factors, such as socioeconomic status, influence educational outcomes.
Do you want to see a movie like the new Marvel one?
I have extensive experience; for instance, I led the marketing team for two years.
Ensure all peripherals (e.g., mouse, keyboard) are connected.
Do you have any dairy-free options, such as almond milk?
I love autumn colors, like the deep reds and oranges of the leaves.
Vary Your Connectors
Avoid 'Like' in Formal Writing
Comma Placement
The 'E.G.' Rule
Smart Tips
Try replacing every second 'like' with 'such as' or 'for instance' to instantly sound more professional.
Use 'e.g.' followed by a comma. It looks cleaner and more technical.
Use 'For instance' at the start of the sentence to give the reader a clear signal.
Use 'particularly' or 'specifically' instead of 'such as'.
Pronunciation
Parenthetical Intonation
When 'for example' is in the middle of a sentence, your pitch should drop slightly and you should pause briefly before and after.
The 'Such as' Glide
In 'such as', the 'ch' and 'a' often link together in fast speech.
Rising-Falling for Examples
I like fruit, ↗ such as ↘ apples.
The rising tone on 'such as' prepares the listener for the list.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Remember 'F.L.S.' - Formal (For instance), Loose (Like), Standard (Such as).
Visual Association
Imagine a magnifying glass hovering over a large group of items, highlighting just one or two specific ones. The magnifying glass is the connector.
Rhyme
When writing for a boss, 'such as' is the gloss; when talking to a mate, 'like' is really great.
Story
A professor (Formal) uses 'Such as' to explain physics. A student (Informal) uses 'Like' to explain his weekend. They both use 'For example' to meet in the middle.
Word Web
Challenge
Write three sentences about your favorite city using 'for instance', 'such as', and 'like' correctly in each.
Cultural Notes
In US academic circles, 'e.g.' and 'i.e.' are strictly differentiated. Using them interchangeably is seen as a sign of poor editing.
British English is often more relaxed about the comma after 'e.g.' compared to American English.
Using 'for instance' instead of 'for example' can make you sound more sophisticated and persuasive in a boardroom setting.
'Such as' comes from Middle English 'swich as'. 'For example' is a direct translation of the Latin 'exempli gratia'.
Conversation Starters
What are some hobbies you'd like to try, such as skydiving or painting?
Can you name some global issues, for instance, climate change, that worry you?
In your professional opinion, what are the traits of a good leader, such as empathy or decisiveness?
Discuss the impact of disruptive technologies, for example, AI, on the modern workforce.
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
The government has implemented several new taxes, ___ the carbon tax.
Find and fix the mistake:
I love winter sports, for example, skiing is my favorite.
Please bring your ID (___, a passport).
I like fruits like apples.
You should use 'etc.' at the end of a list that starts with 'such as'.
Select the sentence-starting connectors.
A: Why do you like this city? B: Well, it has great culture. ___, there are many museums.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercisesThe government has implemented several new taxes, ___ the carbon tax.
Find and fix the mistake:
I love winter sports, for example, skiing is my favorite.
Please bring your ID (___, a passport).
I like fruits like apples.
You should use 'etc.' at the end of a list that starts with 'such as'.
Select the sentence-starting connectors.
A: Why do you like this city? B: Well, it has great culture. ___, there are many museums.
Connect the pairs.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
12 exercisesWe need certain ingredients, ___ flour and sugar, for the cake recipe.
Arrange these words into a sentence: ['example,', 'For', 'she', 'reads', 'historical', 'fiction', 'loves', 'books.']
He has many hobbies, like playing guitar and painting, to relax.
Translate into English: 'Ella tiene varias mascotas, como perros y gatos.'
Which sentence is correct?
Match the example phrase with its formality:
The company offers various benefits, ___ health insurance and paid leave, to its employees.
Arrange these words into a sentence: ['skills', 'like', 'Problem-solving', 'and', 'are', 'communication', 'crucial', 'for', 'this', 'role.']
Find and fix the mistake: 'She loves animals, for example a cat or a dog, living with her.'
Translate into English: 'Muchos países europeos, por ejemplo Francia y Alemania, son parte de la UE.'
Which sentence correctly uses an example phrase?
Match the phrase with its use:
Score: /12
FAQ (8)
It is generally discouraged. Use `such as` or `for instance` instead to maintain a formal tone.
`e.g.` stands for 'exempli gratia' (for example), while `i.e.` stands for 'id est' (that is). Use `e.g.` for a list of examples and `i.e.` for a definition or clarification.
Yes, when it starts a sentence or follows a semicolon, a comma is required to set it off from the rest of the sentence.
They are very similar, but `for instance` is often perceived as slightly more formal or sophisticated in professional writing.
Generally, no. `Such as` is a prepositional phrase that should follow the noun it is illustrating. Use `For example` to start a sentence.
Because `such as` already indicates that you are providing a partial list. Adding `etc.` is repetitive and considered poor style.
The correct phrase is `such as`. `Such like` is non-standard and should be avoided.
The comma goes *before* `such as`, never after it. For example: 'I like fruit, such as apples.'
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
por ejemplo / como
English distinguishes between 'like' (preposition) and 'as' (conjunction).
par exemple / comme
French 'comme' is used more broadly than English 'like'.
zum Beispiel / wie
German 'wie' can also mean 'how', leading to different sentence structures.
tatoeba / nado
Japanese uses particles and end-of-sentence markers for examples.
mathalan / mithla
Arabic exemplifiers can change form based on the case of the noun.
liru / xiang
Chinese does not use commas as strictly as English for these connectors.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
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