example

noun

ig-ˈzam-pəl How to pronounce example (audio)
Definition of examplenext
as in instance
one of a group or collection that shows what the whole is like a war bonnet that is a fine example of Native American handicraft

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word example distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of example are case, illustration, instance, sample, and specimen. While all these words mean "something that exhibits distinguishing characteristics in its category," example applies to a typical, representative, or illustrative instance or case.

a typical example of bureaucratic waste

When could case be used to replace example?

While in some cases nearly identical to example, case is used to direct attention to a real or assumed occurrence or situation that is to be considered, studied, or dealt with.

a case of mistaken identity

When would illustration be a good substitute for example?

The meanings of illustration and example largely overlap; however, illustration applies to an instance offered as a means of clarifying or illuminating a general statement.

a telling illustration of Murphy's Law

Where would instance be a reasonable alternative to example?

In some situations, the words instance and example are roughly equivalent. However, instance applies to any individual person, act, or thing that may be offered to illustrate or explain.

an instance of history repeating itself

When is sample a more appropriate choice than example?

Although the words sample and example have much in common, sample implies a part or unit taken at random from a larger whole and so presumed to be typical of its qualities.

show us a sample of your work

When might specimen be a better fit than example?

The words specimen and example can be used in similar contexts, but specimen applies to any example or sample whether representative or merely existent and available.

one of the finest specimens of the jeweler's art

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of example Last Christmas, for example, both Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie spent the holidays with their in-laws. —Meredith Kile, People.com, 24 July 2025 One adjustment, for example, might cause another unexpected change in how a model works. —Lisa Eadicicco, CNN Money, 24 July 2025 For example, the Department of Education itself, which Trump has vowed to close. —July 24, NPR, 24 July 2025 For example, a set of blue chairs at the far end of a rectangular garden will make the space feel larger than a set of red chairs in the same place. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for example
Recent Examples of Synonyms for example
  1. instance
  2. sample
  3. illustration
  4. specimen
  5. case
Noun
  • However, Edward stepping down from being monarch, choosing love over duty to the crown, was far from the first instance of a royal renouncing their title.
    — Alex Apatoff, People.com, 15 July 2025
  • He’s followed by 50 Cent with 15 such instances, and Justin Bieber, who has done so 11 times throughout his career.
    — Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Definition of instance
Noun
  • General admission tickets are $25 for entry to the event at 1 p.m. Tickets include admission, three taco tickets plus five margarita samples.
    — Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 23 July 2025
  • Water samples will be tested in Northwest Arkansas, rather than Little Rock, to speed up the process.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 23 July 2025
Definition of sample
Noun
  • The Beverly Hilton also teamed up with local artist Henry Kaye to create original illustrations and designs that honor its legacy.
    — Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
  • The cover is an illustration of Ohtani and his dog, who is holding a baseball in his mouth.
    — Oc Register, Oc Register, 18 July 2025
Definition of illustration
Noun
  • All specimens were found at night among the leaf litter on the forest except for the first two, which were discovered perched on a tree trunk and a branch, according to the study.
    — Lauren Liebhaber July 24, Miami Herald, 24 July 2025
  • Taken from different depths, the specimens were collected on 332 research voyages and acquired from 48 natural history museums, making the study the most comprehensive assessment of brittle star DNA to date.
    — Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 24 July 2025
Definition of specimen
Noun
  • In any case, Reed, who has learned how to teleport an egg, comes up with a plan to teleport the entire planet and everyone on it to a totally different star system.
    — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 26 July 2025
  • What Happens Next Going forward Trump is likely to face fresh pressure from a section of his MAGA base to release documents related to the Epstein case while Democrats could attempt to force his hand after Congress returned from its summer recess.
    — Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 2025
Definition of case

Browse Nearby Words

examining
example
examples
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Example.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/example. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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