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.

In the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Paris St-Germain at Anfield, for example, Isak managed just five touches in 45 minutes.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

Starbucks’ Pride Network employee group this year curtailed its investment, for example, though its float will still appear in the parade.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

The other example might be more alarming, seeing as it is the only one that didn’t follow a recession, Reid said.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

For example, a justice might explain how a merits decision from the court, like April’s Callais case, regarding Louisiana’s congressional maps, might not cover an Alabama map because of different facts on the ground.

From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026

The evolution of eye surgery was another great example.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis

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