example

/ig'zɑ:mpl/

Friendly

The word "example" is a noun that helps us understand something better by showing us a case or situation. Let’s break down its meaning and uses in an easy way.

Definition:

1. A task performed or problem solved: In learning, an example is often a problem or question you work on to improve your skills. For instance, at the end of a textbook chapter, you might find examples you need to practice.

2. An occurrence of something: This can refer to a specific instance that shows a point. For instance, if someone makes a mistake, you might say, “That was a bad example of decision-making.”

3. Something to be imitated: An example can also be a model or a way of doing things that others might want to follow. For example, a successful person can be seen as a good example for others.

4. A representative form or pattern: An example can represent a larger group or category. For instance, “This patient is a typical example of the syndrome,” means this patient shows the usual signs of that condition.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "example" when you want to clarify a point by providing a specific case or when you want to describe something that can serve as a guide or model for others.

Examples:

• Basic Use: “Here is an example of how to solve this math problem.”
• In a Sentence: “The teacher gave us several examples to help us understand the lesson better.”

Advanced Usage:

• You might say, “The Smiths' story serves as a cautionary example for those making similar choices.” This means their story is a warning for others.

Word Variants:

• Exemplify (verb): To show or illustrate by example.
  • Example: “Her success exemplifies hard work and dedication.”
• Exemplar (noun): A model or pattern to be copied.
  • Example: “He is an exemplar of perseverance.”

Different Meanings:

• Legal Example: In legal contexts, “making an example” can mean punishing someone to warn others about the consequences of similar actions.
  • Example: “They decided to make an example of him to deter others from breaking the rules.”

Synonyms:

• Instance
• Case
• Model
• Sample
• Illustration

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Set an example": To behave in a way that others should follow.

  • Example: “As a leader, it’s important to set a good example for your team.”

• "Follow someone's example": To do something in the same way that someone else has done.

  • Example: “If you want to succeed, you should follow your mentor's example.”

Academic

Noun

1. a task performed or problem solved in order to develop skill or understanding
   • you must work the examples at the end of each chapter in the textbook
2. an occurrence of something
   • it was a case of bad judgment
   • another instance occurred yesterday
   • but there is always the famous example of the Smiths
3. punishment intended as a warning to others
   • they decided to make an example of him
4. something to be imitated
   • an exemplar of success
   • a model of clarity
   • he is the very model of a modern major general
5. a representative form or pattern
   • I profited from his example
6. an item of information that is typical of a class or group
   • this patient provides a typical example of the syndrome
   • there is an example on page 10

Synonyms

• exercise
• case
• instance
• deterrent example
• lesson
• object lesson
• exemplar
• model
• good example
• illustration
• representative