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.

“It would be helpful if you did XX” or “It would be great if you could acknowledge input from everyone, not just X, Y, Z,” for example, illuminate specific actions you can repeat or change.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Meningitis B bacteria spread through close contact - for example through kissing, sharing vapes and drinks or living in close quarters with a person with the bug.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Tom Mueller, SpaceX’s first employee, called Shotwell a great example of Musk’s eye for talent.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026

What is an example of a possible breakthrough?

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

The games were meant to show the various types of poetic meter: iambic pentameter, for example, which William Shakespeare used to marvelous effect in many of his poems and plays.

From "The Interrupted Tale" 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