Definitions

example

[ig-zam-puhl, -zahm-] / ɪgˈzæm pəl, -ˈzɑm- /

NOUN

instance, model

Synonyms

STRONGEST

case illustration lesson object part pattern precedent symbol

STRONG

archetype citation copy excuse exemplar exemplification ideal original paradigm paragon prototype quotation representation sample sampling specimen standard stereotype

WEAK

case history case in point for instance kind of thing

Usage

What synonym should I use for example? Example as a sample: Example, sample, specimen refer to an individual phenomenon taken as representative of a type, or to a part representative of the whole. Example is used of an object, condition, etc., that is assumed to illustrate a certain principle or standard: a good example of baroque architecture. Sample refers to a small portion of a substance or to a single representative of a group or type that is intended to show what the rest of the substance or the group is like: a sample of yarn. Specimen usually suggests that the “sample” chosen is intended to serve a scientific or technical purpose: a blood specimen; zoological specimens. Example as a pattern: See ideal. Example as a specimen: See case¹.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

What a particular jockey, for example, sees along the back stretch at the Kentucky Derby—a gap along the rail to make his move—is what you see.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 12, 2026

For example, dehydration often causes a severe drop in blood pressure and imbalances in electrolytes like sodium and potassium.

From MarketWatch • Jul. 12, 2026

In an article in Live Law, a legal news website, Hegde gave the example of how another case involving threats against a former judge was dealt with recently.

From BBC • Jul. 12, 2026

In Pochettino’s first year in charge, for example, the U.S. played Panama twice, Jamaica twice, Trinidad and Tobago, Saudi Arabia, Haiti, Guatemala and Venezuela, losing just once.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 12, 2026

Cassiopeia expressed her feelings through the use of math problems: Four Minus One Equals SO SAD, for example, or Three Plus One Equals HOORAY.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

example

Usage

Example Sentences

Vocabulary lists containing example

PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

Argumentative Writing

example

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words

Vocabulary lists containing example

PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

Argumentative Writing