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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.

For example, Lilly executives thought they had maximized production of tirzepatide, the main ingredient in its top-selling weight loss drugs Mounjaro and Zepbound, to meet the explosive demand that led to widespread shortages early on.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 2, 2026

The only documented example occurred in Sumatra, where two large earthquakes struck three months apart in 2004 and 2005.

From Science Daily • May 2, 2026

For example, he was planning on launching and distributing an app that prisoners would be able to run on their tablets to learn programming, a skill that would help them get jobs upon release.

From Slate • May 2, 2026

He believes Toto is an extreme example of how investors have been looking beyond “first-order” AI beneficiaries and into the “second- and third-order supply chain.”

From MarketWatch • May 2, 2026

An example of spirit writing on a slate.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

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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