/ ɪgˈzɑːmpl; NAmE -ˈzæmpl/ noun
1.
example (of sth) something such as an object, a fact or a situation that shows, explains or supports what you say :
Can you give me an example of what you mean?
It is important to cite examples to support your argument.
This dictionary has many examples of how words are used.
Just to give you an example of his generosity—he gave me his old car and wouldn't take any money for it.
2.
example (of sth) a thing that is typical of or represents a particular group or set :
This is a good example of the artist's early work.
It is a perfect example of a medieval castle.
Japan is often quoted as the prime example of a modern industrial nation.
It is a classic example of how not to design a new city centre.
3.
example (to sb) a person or their behaviour that is thought to be a good model for others to copy :
Her courage is an example to us all.
He sets an example to the other students.
She is a shining example of what people with disabilities can achieve.
He is a captain who leads by example .
4.
a person's behaviour, either good or bad, that other people copy :
It would be a mistake to follow his example .
•
IDIOMS
- for example
- make an example of sb
••
SYNONYMS
example
case ♦ instance ♦ specimen ♦ illustration
These are all words for a thing or situation that is typical of a particular group or set, and is sometimes used to support an argument.
example
something such as an object, a fact or a situation that shows, explains or supports what you say; a thing that is typical of or represents a particular group or set:
Can you give me an example of what you mean?
case
a particular situation or a situation of a particular type; a situation that relates to a particular person or thing:
In some cases people have had to wait several weeks for an appointment.
instance
( rather formal ) a particular situation or a situation of a particular type:
The report highlights a number of instances of injustice.
specimen
an example of sth, especially an animal or plant:
The aquarium has some interesting specimens of unusual tropical fish.
illustration
( rather formal ) a story, an event or an example that clearly shows the truth about sth:
The statistics are a clear illustration of the point I am trying to make.
example or illustration?
An illustration is often used to show that sth is true. An example is used to help to explain sth.
PATTERNS AND COLLOCATIONS :
a(n) example / case / instance / specimen / illustration of sth
in a particular case / instance
for example / instance
••
WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Old French , from Latin exemplum , from eximere take out, from ex- out + emere take. Compare with sample .