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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.

This is a long-standing trend — according to the Department of Transportation, for example, vehicle miles per gallon in the U.S. improved from about 13 mpg in 1975 to about 27 mpg in 2023.

From MarketWatch • May 5, 2026

Pluto is the most well-known example and is one of the few with a confirmed thin atmosphere.

From Science Daily • May 5, 2026

It features innovative rules: Fouls caught by fans count as outs, for example, and batters who walk get to run the bases until all nine defensive players have touched the ball.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

Rubio listed as an example an issue that generally unites the Trump administration and the Vatican -- religious freedom.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

For example, Monsieur Jean-Jacques Rousseau believed that people were basically generous and kind, and that disagreeable behavior was caused by a poor upbringing and the corrupting influence of civilization.

From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood

Vocabulary lists containing example

PARCC: Language of the Test (Grade7)

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Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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Argumentative Writing

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