55 Answers to “Another Word For Example” for Clear Writing
The best alternative to example depends on what you mean. An instance is a particular occurrence. An illustration helps explain an idea. A sample is a portion selected for examination. A model shows something worth following. These words overlap, but they do different jobs in a sentence.
If you want another way to say for example, useful choices include for instance, such as, and to illustrate. However, their grammar differs: “for instance” can introduce a complete sentence, while “such as” usually introduces specific items.
This guide separates alternatives to the noun example from phrases that introduce examples, expressions for something worth copying, and verbs used to demonstrate an idea. The 55 entries include close synonyms, contextual alternatives, and clearly labeled related vocabulary. You will learn which substitutions preserve your meaning, which require a sentence rewrite, and which add an implication you may not intend.
Best Synonyms for Example at a Glance
| Alternative | Core Meaning | Best Used For | Tone/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instance | A particular occurrence or case | Events, situations, behavior | Neutral |
| Illustration | Something that clarifies an idea | Explanations, teaching, essays | Neutral to formal |
| Case | A particular situation under consideration | Analysis, discussion, research | Neutral |
| Sample | A selected portion or item | Products, testing, research | Neutral to technical |
| Specimen | An individual item examined as representative | Science, collections, classification | Technical |
| Model | Something used as a guide or standard | Designs, behavior, instructions | Neutral |
| Exemplar | A representative or excellent example | Formal descriptions, evaluation | Formal |
| For instance | A phrase introducing an example | Replacing “for example” | Neutral |
| Such as | A phrase introducing specific members of a category | Lists within sentences | Neutral |
| To illustrate | A phrase introducing clarification | Teaching, reports, explanations | Neutral to formal |
Instance and illustration are often the closest noun alternatives. For instance is usually the easiest replacement for the phrase for example.
What Does Example Mean?
Example is primarily a countable noun. Its main senses explain why no single synonym works everywhere.
Something That Illustrates a General Point
An example makes an idea easier to understand by showing a particular case.
“The teacher gave an example of a sentence fragment.”
Here, illustration is a close alternative.
A Particular Case or Occurrence
An example can be one instance of a broader situation or pattern.
“This delay is another example of poor planning.”
Here, instance or case may work.
Something That Represents a Type
An example may be an object that displays the characteristics of a category.
“The museum owns a fine example of early American furniture.”
Depending on the object and purpose, specimen, sample, or representative may fit.
A Standard for Others to Follow
An example can also mean behavior or a person worth copying.
“Her patience set an example for the team.”
Here, the relevant alternatives include model and role model.
The expression make an example of someone has a different meaning: punish that person to discourage others from behaving similarly.
Pronunciation and Word Information
- Common US pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzæmpəl/
- Syllables: Three
- Stress: On the second syllable
- Main part of speech: Countable noun
- Plural: Examples
- Common phrase: For example
Because example is countable, a singular use generally needs a determiner: an example, this example, or another example.
Word Family of Example
| Form | Part of Speech | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example | Noun | A particular case, illustration, or standard | “Give one example.” |
| Exemplify | Verb | To illustrate or be a clear example of something | “These results exemplify the problem.” |
| Exemplification | Noun | The act of illustrating through examples | “The explanation needs further exemplification.” |
| Exemplary | Adjective | Excellent and worthy of imitation | “She showed exemplary judgment.” |
Exemplary does not normally mean “included as an example.” An exemplary answer is an excellent answer worth following, not merely any answer provided for illustration.
Synonyms for Example by Context
For Explaining an Idea
Choose illustration, instance, or case when you are making an abstract point concrete.
“This exchange is a useful illustration of active listening.”
For Introducing Specific Information
Choose for instance, such as, or to illustrate when you need an alternative to for example.
“Some vegetables, such as carrots and beets, grow underground.”
For Something Worth Following
Choose model, exemplar, or role model when the example provides a standard.
“Her response became a model for future customer communications.”
For Testing or Examining Something
Choose sample, specimen, or test case, depending on whether you mean selected material, an individual item, or a scenario used for evaluation.
“The laboratory examined a sample of the water.”
For Detailed Analysis
Choose case study, worked example, or demonstration when the example includes explanation, investigation, or a process.
“The textbook includes a worked example of each calculation.”
55 Synonyms and Alternatives for Example
The collection below contains 20 noun alternatives, 20 example-introducing phrases, 8 related verbs, and 7 specialized expressions. The verbs and specialized terms are included for sentence rewrites and specific contexts; they are not all direct synonyms of the noun example.
Noun Alternatives for Cases, Illustrations, and Models
1. Instance
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Very Close.
A particular occurrence of something, especially a behavior, event, or condition. Best for identifying one occurrence within a broader pattern.
Example: “This is an instance of excellent teamwork.”
Nuance: Unlike example, instance does not usually suggest a standard worth copying.
2. Illustration
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Very Close.
Something that explains or clarifies a point.
Example: “The story provides an illustration of the risks involved.”
Nuance: It emphasizes explanatory value. It can also mean a picture, so context matters.
3. Case
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Close.
A particular situation or occurrence considered individually.
Example: “This is a clear case of mistaken identity.”
Nuance: It presents the situation as something to examine or classify.
4. Sample
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
An item or portion selected from a larger group or quantity.
Example: “She included a sample of her writing.”
Nuance: A sample comes from, or stands for, a larger collection. An example need not do so.
5. Specimen
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
An individual object or organism examined as a representative of its kind.
Example: “The collection contains a well-preserved specimen of the beetle.”
Nuance: It suits scientific or collecting contexts and can sound clinical when applied to people.
6. Exemplar
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Close.
A representative example or a person or thing regarded as an excellent model.
Example: “The building is an exemplar of modernist design.”
Nuance: More formal than example and often, though not always, approving.
7. Model
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
Something used as a guide for imitation or development.
Example: “Use this paragraph as a model for your introduction.”
Nuance: It suggests that others should follow its structure or qualities.
8. Demonstration
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
A practical display showing how something works or how a task is performed.
Example: “The instructor gave a demonstration of the technique.”
Nuance: It usually involves showing a process, rather than merely naming a case.
9. Case Study
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Narrower.
A detailed investigation of a particular person, organization, event, or situation.
Example: “The course includes a case study of a failed product launch.”
Nuance: It implies depth of analysis that an ordinary example may lack.
10. Representative
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
A person or thing that stands for a larger group or category.
Example: “The plant is a representative of a drought-tolerant species.”
Nuance: It emphasizes category membership and may also mean someone acting on others’ behalf.
11. Exemplification
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
An illustration or embodiment of a quality, principle, or idea.
Example: “The policy is an exemplification of the company’s cautious approach.”
Nuance: Formal and often heavier than example; plain-language writing usually benefits from a simpler choice.
12. Embodiment
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
A person or thing that gives concrete expression to an abstract quality.
Example: “The design is an embodiment of simplicity.”
Nuance: Stronger than example: it presents the quality as centrally expressed in the person or thing.
13. Epitome
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Narrower.
A particularly typical or perfect example of a quality or type.
Example: “The hotel was the epitome of luxury.”
Nuance: It makes a strong claim about how fully something represents a quality.
14. Paradigm
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
A clear or typical example, or a model underlying a way of thinking.
Example: “The project became a paradigm of community-led development.”
Nuance: Formal and potentially ambiguous because it also means a conceptual framework.
15. Archetype
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Narrower.
An original model or a highly typical example of a recurring type.
Example: “The character is an archetype of the reluctant hero.”
Nuance: Particularly useful in literature and cultural analysis; too specific for an ordinary occurrence.
16. Prototype
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Related, Not Exact.
An early version used to test or develop a design.
Example: “The team built a prototype of the device.”
Nuance: A prototype has a development role. A finished product used as an example is not necessarily a prototype.
17. Precedent
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Contextual.
An earlier action or decision that provides guidance for a later situation.
Example: “The agreement established a precedent for future negotiations.”
Nuance: It requires a relationship between an earlier event and a later decision.
18. Role Model
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Narrower.
A person whose behavior or achievements others seek to imitate.
Example: “Her older sister became a role model for her.”
Nuance: Applies to people in this sense and usually carries approval.
19. Object Lesson
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Narrower.
A practical example that teaches a lesson, often by showing consequences.
Example: “The failed launch became an object lesson in poor preparation.”
Nuance: Frequently cautionary, although it can also illustrate a positive lesson.
20. Cautionary Tale
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Narrower.
A story or account that warns others against a mistake or danger.
Example: “The company’s collapse became a cautionary tale about rapid expansion.”
Nuance: Adds both a narrative element and a warning.
Phrases That Introduce Examples
21. For Instance
Part of Speech: Adverbial phrase. Strength: Very Close to “For Example.”
Introduces a particular case supporting a general statement.
Example: “Some birds cannot fly; for instance, penguins swim instead.”
Nuance: Usually interchangeable with for example with little change in tone.
22. Such As
Part of Speech: Example-introducing phrase. Strength: Close to “For Example.”
Introduces members of a category.
Example: “Bring basic tools such as a hammer and a screwdriver.”
Nuance: Usually followed by nouns or noun phrases, not an independent sentence.
23. To Illustrate
Part of Speech: Infinitive phrase. Strength: Close to “For Example.”
Signals that the following material will clarify a point.
Example: “To illustrate, consider a household with two incomes.”
Nuance: Especially suitable for explanations and teaching.
24. As an Illustration
Part of Speech: Prepositional phrase. Strength: Close to “For Example.”
Introduces an explanatory case.
Example: “As an illustration, imagine dividing the budget among three teams.”
Nuance: Slightly more formal and deliberate than for example.
25. By Way of Illustration
Part of Speech: Prepositional phrase. Strength: Close to “For Example.”
Presents something for explanatory purposes.
Example: “By way of illustration, the report compares two delivery routes.”
Nuance: Useful in formal prose, but wordy for casual writing.
26. As an Example
Part of Speech: Prepositional phrase. Strength: Very Close to “For Example.”
Explicitly identifies something as an example.
Example: “As an example, take the opening paragraph.”
Nuance: Often works well when directing attention to a particular item.
27. Take …, for Example
Part of Speech: Imperative construction. Strength: Close to “For Example.”
Invites the reader to examine a specific case.
Example: “Take public transportation, for example: reliability matters as much as price.”
Nuance: Direct and conversational without being overly informal.
28. Consider
Part of Speech: Verb used as an imperative. Strength: Contextual.
Directs attention to a case, scenario, or possibility.
Example: “Consider a student who works evenings.”
Nuance: Asks the reader to think about the scenario; it does not automatically identify it as evidence.
29. A Case in Point Is
Part of Speech: Example-introducing clause. Strength: Close to “For Example.”
Introduces a case that directly supports the point being discussed.
Example: “A case in point is the recent improvement in delivery times.”
Nuance: Suggests particular relevance to the argument.
30. One Example Is
Part of Speech: Example-introducing clause. Strength: Very Close.
Introduces one item without implying it is the only possibility.
Example: “One example is the neighborhood tool-sharing program.”
Nuance: Simple, explicit, and suitable for most audiences.
31. One Instance Is
Part of Speech: Example-introducing clause. Strength: Close.
Identifies a particular occurrence.
Example: “One instance is the outage that interrupted yesterday’s meeting.”
Nuance: Best when the subject is an event or situation.
32. A Useful Illustration Is
Part of Speech: Example-introducing clause. Strength: Close.
Introduces a case chosen for its explanatory value.
Example: “A useful illustration is the difference between renting and buying equipment.”
Nuance: Emphasizes clarity rather than representativeness.
33. A Typical Case Is
Part of Speech: Example-introducing clause. Strength: Contextual.
Introduces a case presented as characteristic of a wider pattern.
Example: “A typical case is a customer abandoning checkout after seeing delivery fees.”
Nuance: Use typical only when the case reasonably represents the broader situation.
34. One Possibility Is
Part of Speech: Possibility-introducing clause. Strength: Contextual.
Presents one option among several.
Example: “One possibility is to offer weekend appointments.”
Nuance: An option is not necessarily an observed example.
35. Including
Part of Speech: Preposition. Strength: Contextual.
Introduces items within a larger group.
Example: “Several departments, including finance and operations, joined the meeting.”
Nuance: Emphasizes membership or inclusion rather than illustration alone.
36. Like
Part of Speech: Preposition. Strength: Contextual.
Can introduce examples or comparisons in everyday English.
Example: “Outdoor activities like hiking and cycling are popular here.”
Nuance: Often natural in conversation, but such as may be clearer when similarity and membership could be confused.
37. Say
Part of Speech: Verb used parenthetically. Strength: Contextual.
Introduces a hypothetical example or approximate choice.
Example: “Choose a small amount, say, ten dollars.”
Nuance: Conversational and especially useful for imagined quantities or scenarios.
38. Let’s Say
Part of Speech: Clause. Strength: Contextual.
Introduces an assumed situation for discussion.
Example: “Let’s say your monthly expenses rise by ten percent.”
Nuance: Signals a hypothetical assumption rather than an established fact.
39. Suppose
Part of Speech: Verb used as an imperative. Strength: Contextual.
Asks the reader to imagine a condition.
Example: “Suppose the train arrives twenty minutes late.”
Nuance: Useful for reasoning through scenarios, but not a direct substitute before a list of objects.
40. e.g.
Part of Speech: Abbreviation used parenthetically. Strength: Very Close to “For Example.”
Means “for example.”
Example: “Choose a whole grain, e.g., oats or brown rice.”
Nuance: Compact, but the full phrase may be easier for general readers. It does not mean that is.
Related Verbs for Rewriting Sentences
These verbs help replace constructions such as “is an example of” or “gives an example of.” They cannot occupy the same grammatical position as the noun.
41. Exemplify
Part of Speech: Verb. Strength: Close in Sentence Rewrites.
To be a clear example of something.
Example: “Her response exemplifies calm leadership.”
Nuance: Often replaces “is an example of” efficiently.
42. Illustrate
Part of Speech: Verb. Strength: Close in Sentence Rewrites.
To clarify or explain through an example.
Example: “The chart illustrates the seasonal pattern.”
Nuance: Emphasizes making something understandable.
43. Demonstrate
Part of Speech: Verb. Strength: Contextual.
To show how something works or establish something through evidence.
Example: “The instructor demonstrated the correct grip.”
Nuance: Can suggest practical display or stronger evidential support than illustrate.
44. Show
Part of Speech: Verb. Strength: Broader.
To make something visible or apparent.
Example: “This exchange shows how easily instructions can be misunderstood.”
Nuance: Plain and flexible, but less specific than exemplify.
45. Represent
Part of Speech: Verb. Strength: Contextual.
To stand for a category, group, or idea.
Example: “These three designs represent different approaches to the same problem.”
Nuance: Does not necessarily mean that something explains or proves a point.
46. Embody
Part of Speech: Verb. Strength: Contextual.
To express an abstract quality in a concrete form.
Example: “The building embodies the architect’s preference for simplicity.”
Nuance: Stronger and more encompassing than merely being one example.
47. Typify
Part of Speech: Verb. Strength: Narrower.
To display the characteristic features of a type.
Example: “The narrow streets typify the older part of the city.”
Nuance: Makes a claim about what is characteristic or typical.
48. Epitomize
Part of Speech: Verb. Strength: Narrower.
To be a particularly clear or perfect example of a quality.
Example: “The performance epitomized precision and control.”
Nuance: More emphatic than exemplify.
Specialized and Descriptive Expressions
49. Worked Example
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Narrower.
A problem presented with the steps needed to reach its solution.
Example: “The chapter ends with a worked example of compound interest.”
Nuance: Particularly useful in mathematics, programming, and practical instruction.
50. Test Case
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Related, Not Exact.
A scenario used to evaluate a system, rule, or procedure.
Example: “The developer added a test case for an empty input field.”
Nuance: Its purpose is evaluation, not simply explanation.
51. Use Case
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Related, Not Exact.
A description of how a person or system uses a product or service to accomplish a goal.
Example: “Offline access is an important use case for the app.”
Nuance: Describes an application or interaction, rather than any general example.
52. Counterexample
Part of Speech: Noun. Strength: Related, Not Exact.
An example that shows a general claim is false.
Example: “A single odd result provides a counterexample to the claim that every result is even.”
Nuance: Challenges a claim instead of supporting it.
53. Hypothetical Example
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Narrower.
An imagined situation used to explain or explore an idea.
Example: “The trainer used a hypothetical example involving a missed deadline.”
Nuance: Must not be presented as an actual event.
54. Real-World Example
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Narrower.
An example drawn from an actual situation.
Example: “The lesson connects the formula to a real-world example from construction.”
Nuance: Claims a basis in reality, so the underlying situation should be accurate.
55. Representative Example
Part of Speech: Noun phrase. Strength: Narrower.
An example selected because it reflects important characteristics of a larger group.
Example: “The editor chose a representative example of the most common error.”
Nuance: Not every example is representative; an unusual exception may illustrate a point without reflecting the wider pattern.
Closest, Contextual, and Related Alternatives
| Word or Expression | Relationship | Main Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Instance | Very close synonym | Focuses on one occurrence |
| Illustration | Very close synonym | Focuses on explanation |
| Case | Close synonym | Treats a situation as something to consider |
| Sample | Contextual alternative | Refers to a selected portion or item |
| Model | Contextual alternative | Suggests guidance or imitation |
| Epitome | Narrower alternative | Suggests especially complete representation |
| Prototype | Related term | Refers to an early developmental version |
| Counterexample | Specialized related term | Refutes a general claim |
| For instance | Close phrase alternative | Replaces “for example,” not the noun alone |
A useful substitution check is to ask: Does the new word add a claim? Calling something a prototype, typical case, or epitome adds information that the ordinary word example does not.
Formal and Informal Alternatives
Example itself is neutral and works in conversation, education, business, and academic writing.
| Register | Suitable Choices | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Neutral/everyday | Example, instance, illustration, for instance | Usually the safest choices |
| Formal/academic | Exemplar, exemplification, by way of illustration | Use when the added formality serves the explanation |
| Conversational | Like, say, let’s say, take …, for example | Helpful for spoken explanations and approachable writing |
| Emphatic/evaluative | Epitome, epitomize, exemplary | Add a stronger judgment about quality or representativeness |
These words do not form a simple intensity scale. Epitome is not merely a stronger version of every sense of example: it makes a different claim.
Example vs Similar Words
Example vs Instance
Both can identify a particular occurrence.
Example often highlights why the occurrence helps explain something. Instance simply identifies it as one occurrence of a type.
“This is an example of poor communication.”
“This is an instance of poor communication.”
Both work. The second sounds slightly more focused on classification.
Example vs Sample
An example illustrates a point or category. A sample is selected from something larger.
“The teacher provided an example of persuasive writing.”
“The applicant submitted a writing sample.”
A writing sample may also serve as an example, but the terms emphasize different purposes.
Example vs Illustration
An illustration specifically helps clarify an idea.
“Her experience offers an illustration of the problem.”
This can replace example naturally. However, illustration does not replace example in “She set a good example.”
Example vs Model
A model provides guidance for imitation or development.
“This email is an example of a customer complaint.”
“This email is a model for responding to customer complaints.”
The first identifies a type. The second offers a pattern to follow.
Example vs Evidence
An example can illustrate a claim. Evidence provides grounds for accepting a claim.
One anecdote may help readers understand an argument without establishing that the argument is generally true. Replacing example with evidence can therefore overstate what the material supports.
Example vs Precedent
A precedent is an earlier case relevant to a later action or decision.
A past event can be both an example and a precedent, but it becomes a precedent because of how it guides subsequent decisions.
Words Related to Example That Are Not Exact Synonyms
Several terms commonly appear near examples without meaning the same thing:
- Proof: Establishes a conclusion under the relevant standards; an illustrative example may not do that.
- Evidence: Supports a claim but need not take the form of an example.
- Analogy: Explains through a comparison between things that share relevant features.
- Definition: States what a word or concept means; an example shows a particular application.
- Anecdote: A short account of an event that may serve as an example.
- Template: A reusable structure into which new information can be placed.
- Benchmark: A reference point used for comparison or evaluation.
For instance, a completed invoice can be an example, while a reusable blank invoice is a template. Calling both a template can confuse someone who needs a document ready to fill in.
Common Collocations With Example
| Collocation | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Give an example | Provide an illustrative case | “Can you give an example?” |
| Provide an example | Supply an illustrative case | “The guide provides an example.” |
| Cite an example | Refer to a case in support of a discussion | “She cited an example from the report.” |
| Set an example | Establish behavior others may follow | “Managers should set an example.” |
| Follow someone’s example | Act as that person has acted | “He followed his mentor’s example.” |
| A clear example | An easily recognized illustration | “This is a clear example of duplication.” |
| A prime example | A particularly strong or typical illustration | “The building is a prime example of the style.” |
| Make an example of someone | Punish someone to deter others | “They punished him to make an example of him.” |
Collocations often limit substitution. Give an illustration can work, but set an illustration does not replace set an example.
Antonyms of Example
There is no single general antonym of example. Different senses produce different contrasts.
| Contrasting Term | Relevant Sense | Why It Is Not a Universal Antonym |
|---|---|---|
| Counterexample | An example supporting a general claim | Challenges the claim but is still an example |
| Exception | A case presented as typical | Falls outside a pattern but may itself illustrate another point |
| Nonexample | Membership in a defined category | Shows what does not belong to that category |
| Anti-model | A standard worth imitating | Provides something to avoid rather than follow |
In teaching, a nonexample can clarify boundaries. If the concept is triangle, a square is a nonexample. It is not an opposite of the word example in ordinary conversation.
How to Choose the Right Synonym for Example
Identify Whether You Mean a Noun or an Introductory Phrase
If your sentence contains an example, look first at noun alternatives:
Before: “This is an example of unnecessary repetition.”
After: “This is an instance of unnecessary repetition.”
If it contains for example, choose an introductory phrase:
Before: “Some materials expand when heated. For example, metals generally do.”
After: “Some materials expand when heated. For instance, metals generally do.”
Decide What the Example Is Doing
Use illustration to clarify, sample for selected material, and model for guidance.
Before: “Please send an example of your work.”
After: “Please send a sample of your work.”
The revised version makes the selection purpose clearer.
Check Whether Your Choice Adds an Evaluation
Before: “Her response was an example of professionalism.”
After: “Her response epitomized professionalism.”
The second sentence makes a much stronger judgment. Use it only if that is what you mean.
Adjust the Sentence Structure
Before: “We need supplies, for example, paper and pens.”
After: “We need supplies such as paper and pens.”
The revision integrates the examples smoothly. By contrast, such as would not naturally replace for example before a standalone explanatory sentence.
Match the Reader’s Needs
For a general audience, example, instance, and illustration are often clearer than exemplification or paradigm. Choose a more specialized term when its specific meaning helps.
Common Mistakes When Using Example Synonyms
Replacing For Example With Such As Everywhere
Awkward:
“Such as, the machine may stop unexpectedly.”
Better:
“For instance, the machine may stop unexpectedly.”
Use such as to introduce items or cases within an appropriate grammatical structure:
“Faults such as loose connections can stop the machine.”
Confusing e.g. With i.e.
e.g. introduces examples. i.e. introduces a restatement or clarification meaning “that is.”
“Bring identification, e.g., a passport.”
“Bring your primary travel document, i.e., your passport.”
The second wording identifies the document specifically rather than offering one possibility.
Calling Every Example Typical
An unusual case can be a useful example. Calling it typical or representative adds a claim about how well it reflects the larger group.
Treating Prototype as a General Substitute
A demonstration unit is not automatically a prototype. Use prototype when the item is an early version involved in development or testing.
Using Exemplary to Mean Illustrative
“The appendix contains illustrative answers.”
This says the answers help explain something.
“The appendix contains exemplary answers.”
This says the answers are excellent and worth following.
Changing the Meaning of Set an Example
“She set a good example” concerns behavior others may imitate. “She provided a useful illustration” concerns explanation. The two sentences describe different actions.
Read Next
Explore more helpful guides from this category.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Another Word for Example?
Instance and illustration are often the closest alternatives. Use instance for a particular occurrence and illustration for something that explains a point.
What Can I Say Instead of For Example?
Use for instance, to illustrate, or as an example. Such as works well when introducing specific items within a sentence.
What Is a Formal Synonym for Example?
Illustration is suitable for most formal writing. Exemplar works for a representative or excellent model, while exemplification is a more abstract and formal option.
What Is Another Word for a Good Example?
Use model or exemplar for something worth following. Use role model for a person whose behavior or achievements others wish to imitate.
Is Sample a Synonym for Example?
Sometimes. A sample is a selected item or portion, such as a writing sample. It cannot replace example naturally in every expression, including “set an example.”
What Is Another Word for a Bad Example?
For behavior others should avoid, cautionary example, object lesson, or anti-model may fit. If you mean an example that explains something poorly, use unclear illustration or poorly chosen example.
Can I Use For Instance in an Essay?
Yes. For instance is neutral and appropriate in most essays. Choose it when introducing a specific case that explains or supports the preceding point.
What Is the Opposite of Example?
There is no universal opposite. Counterexample challenges a claim, nonexample falls outside a category, and exception contrasts with a typical case.
Conclusion
The most useful answer to Another Word For Example starts with the sentence you want to revise. Choose instance for an occurrence, illustration for clarification, sample for selected material, and model for something others can follow. When replacing for example, for instance usually preserves both the meaning and the sentence structure.
More specialized choices require care. Epitome adds emphasis, precedent connects an earlier case to a later decision, and prototype identifies a developmental version. None is a universal replacement. Before changing the word, check what your sentence needs to do: explain an idea, identify a case, offer guidance, or introduce specific items. That purpose will usually lead you to the clearest alternative.
Related Articles
55 Picks for Another Word For Enhance: Sharper Word Choice
Nov 11, 2026
55 Choices for Another Word For Demonstrate in Context
Nov 11, 2026