/ ˈɪnstəns; NAmE / noun , verb
■ noun
a particular example or case of sth :
The report highlights a number of instances of injustice.
In most instances, there will be no need for further treatment.
I would normally suggest taking time off work, but in this instance I'm not sure that would do any good.
➡ note at example
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IDIOMS
- for instance
- in the first instance
■ verb
[ vn ] ( formal ) to give sth as an example
••
WORD ORIGIN
late 16th cent. (in its current sense): from medieval Latin instantia example to the contrary (translating Greek enstasis objection); hence the meaning “single occurrence”.