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.

Collina used an example involving England from March, when Adam Wharton blocked the run of Uruguay's Jose Maria Gimenez before Ben White scored.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

“Speed over perfection, courage over comfort….It’s a good example of the new Nestlé we are trying to build.”

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

For a couple spending $120,000 a year in retirement, for example, essentials might take up $70,000.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

Munro, for example, avoids looking at or responding to emails when she is doing deep, high-level work.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

“Ki-e.lou-cou-ze-ta,” was an example of one such message.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

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