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.

For example, the cheapest ticket to see the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden during the recent NBA finals started at about $3,500.

From BBC • Jun. 16, 2026

Chad, for example, faces a humanitarian crisis with limited access to water, electricity and food.

From Barron's • Jun. 16, 2026

“For example, in the periods immediately following our past restructurings, we experienced higher rates of voluntary employee attrition and declines in reported employee job satisfaction,” the company stated.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 16, 2026

For example, investors can check how much exposure they have to the software industry, or to a specific country or region.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 16, 2026

But consider: If even in our own uncomfortably modern times, there are ideas and feelings that are perfectly expressed in no other way but Latin—“tempus fugit,” for example, or “alma mater,” or “Et tu, Brute?”

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