Use example when pointing to a concrete case that makes an abstract idea clearer. It fits naturally in explanations, instructions, and arguments: 'for example', 'give an example', 'a good example of'. Prefer 'instance' in formal writing when you mean a single occurrence without the pedagogical sense.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| This is a example of good writing. | This is an example of good writing. |
| He gave a example. | He gave an example. |
Use example in this sense with verbs like 'set', 'follow', or 'lead by': 'set a good example', 'follow someone's example', 'lead by example'. It carries a moral or inspirational tone.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| She leads with example in everything she does. | She leads by example in everything she does. |
| He set example for the team. | He set an example for the team. |
This sense almost always appears in the fixed phrase 'make an example of someone'. It has a formal, often severe tone.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| They made example of him to deter others. | They made an example of him to deter others. |
| The judge made him example. | The judge made an example of him. |
Example is most natural in 'for example' (introducing an illustration) and 'set an example' (modelling behaviour). The phrase 'make an example of' is reserved for punitive contexts.
The article 'an' before example is often replaced with 'a': a example instead of an example. The fixed phrase is 'lead by example', not 'lead with example'.
From Anglo-French saumple, a shortening of Old French essample, from Latin exemplum ('a sample, model, or instance'). Latin exemplum derives from eximere ('to take out'), combining ex- ('out') and emere ('to take'). First recorded in English around 1300. The spelling shifted from ensample to the modern example by the 16th century.
What does example mean?
Example most commonly means a specific instance used to illustrate a general rule or idea. It also means a model of behaviour worth imitating, or a punishment intended to deter others.
What is the origin of the word example?
Example comes from Latin exemplum, meaning 'a sample or model', derived from eximere ('to take out'). It entered English via Old French around 1300.
What is the difference between example and instance?
Both refer to a specific case, but example emphasises that the case illustrates or explains something, while instance simply points to a particular occurrence.
What does 'make an example of someone' mean?
It means to punish someone publicly so that others are deterred from the same behaviour.
What is the plural of example?
The plural is examples, formed regularly by adding -s.