When writing an essay, it’s essential to illustrate your points clearly and effectively.
One of the most common ways to do so is by providing examples.
While the phrase “for example” is widely used, relying on it too much can make your writing feel repetitive.
By expanding your vocabulary, you can present your examples in a more engaging and varied way. In this blog post, we’ll explore
19 Other Ways to Say “For Example”
- For instance
- Such as
- Like
- To illustrate
- As an illustration
- Namely
- In particular
- As an example
- To give an example
- One example is
- Consider
- As shown by
- In other words
- This can be seen in
- A case in point
- To demonstrate
- Take the case of
- An instance of this is
- This includes
1. For instance
Definition: “For instance” is a formal way to introduce a specific example that helps clarify your point.
Description: This phrase is one of the most widely used alternatives to “for example.” It serves to introduce an example that supports or elaborates on the argument you’re making.
Usage Examples:
- Many species are endangered due to habitat destruction. For instance, the Bengal tiger is at risk.
- Some students prefer online learning. For instance, those with busy schedules find it more convenient.
2. Such as
Definition: “Such as” is used to introduce one or more examples that are part of a broader category.
Description: This phrase is often used to specify particular items or situations within a larger group or category.
Usage Examples:
- The country is home to several iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum.
- Many renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, are becoming more popular.
3. Like
Definition: “Like” is a more informal alternative to “for example,” often used in casual contexts.
Description: “Like” is ideal for introducing examples quickly and is commonly used in conversational or informal writing.
Usage Examples:
- Several cities in the world are known for their cultural heritage, like Paris and Rome.
- Many animals, like elephants and whales, are facing extinction due to poaching.
4. To illustrate
Definition: “To illustrate” is a formal way to introduce an example that clarifies or elaborates on the point being made.
Description: This phrase is especially useful when you want to make a clear connection between your argument and the example you’re presenting.
Usage Examples:
- There are various ways to improve your writing skills. To illustrate, you can practice daily or seek feedback from peers.
- Health problems related to sedentary lifestyles are common. To illustrate, heart disease is a significant concern.
5. As an illustration
Definition: “As an illustration” is used to introduce a concrete example that helps explain an abstract concept or argument.
Description: This phrase is formal and ideal for academic essays, as it introduces examples that support your point of view.
Usage Examples:
- The effect of pollution on human health is severe. As an illustration, the rise in respiratory diseases in urban areas is alarming.
- Many countries are adopting green technologies. As an illustration, Norway has invested heavily in electric vehicles.
6. Namely
Definition: “Namely” is used to introduce specific examples or details after a general statement.
Description: This word emphasizes that the examples you’re about to give are particularly important or relevant to the point being made.
Usage Examples:
- There are several issues affecting the environment, namely deforestation and pollution.
- Many famous authors wrote about the human condition, namely Shakespeare and Dostoevsky.
7. In particular
Definition: “In particular” is used to single out one or more examples that are especially noteworthy.
Description: This phrase is effective when you want to focus on one example that stands out among a group or category.
Usage Examples:
- The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, in particular the ancient Egyptian collection.
- Many countries have strong economies. In particular, Germany has been a leader in manufacturing.
8. As an example
Definition: “As an example” is a straightforward phrase used to introduce one or more specific instances that support your point.
Description: This phrase is clear and direct, making it ideal for formal and academic writing when you need to introduce an example.
Usage Examples:
- Several artists have influenced modern painting, as an example, Picasso and Van Gogh.
- There are many ways to conserve water, as an example, reducing daily water usage can make a significant impact.
9. To give an example
Definition: “To give an example” introduces a specific case or situation that illustrates your argument.
Description: This is another clear and direct phrase that helps to elaborate on your point by providing real-world or hypothetical instances.
Usage Examples:
- Many countries are investing in renewable energy sources. To give an example, India has recently invested in large-scale solar farms.
- There are various challenges in managing a business. To give an example, handling customer complaints effectively is crucial.
10. One example is
Definition: “One example is” is used to present a specific instance that supports the argument you’ve made.
Description: This phrase is useful when you want to present a single example in a clear, straightforward manner.
Usage Examples:
- The company has faced several setbacks. One example is their delayed product launch last year.
- Many students benefit from extracurricular activities. One example is the improvement in leadership skills.
11. Consider
Definition: “Consider” is often used to prompt the reader to think about a specific example that illustrates the point being made.
Description: This phrase is slightly more engaging, encouraging the reader to reflect on the example as part of the argument.
Usage Examples:
- There are several ways to reduce waste. Consider the benefits of recycling programs in urban areas.
- Many successful entrepreneurs started small. Consider Steve Jobs, who began in a garage before building Apple.
12. As shown by
Definition: “As shown by” is used to introduce a piece of evidence or an example that has already been mentioned or will be presented.
Description: This phrase is great for drawing attention to examples that help validate your argument or claim.
Usage Examples:
- Pollution has increased drastically in major cities, as shown by the rise in smog levels.
- The new policy has been effective, as shown by the reduction in carbon emissions.
13. In other words
Definition: “In other words” introduces a clearer or simpler explanation of what was just said.
Description: This phrase is useful when you need to rephrase a statement in a way that makes the example more digestible for the reader.
Usage Examples:
- The proposal is costly, in other words, it requires significant investment.
- Many people struggle with time management, in other words, they find it hard to prioritize tasks.
14. This can be seen in
Definition: “This can be seen in” is used to point out an example that provides evidence of the argument you’re making.
Description: This phrase helps to reinforce your point by directing the reader’s attention to a concrete example.
Usage Examples:
- Economic inequality is rising. This can be seen in the widening gap between the rich and the low-income.
- Education is essential for development. This can be seen in countries with high literacy rates.
15. A case in point
Definition: “A case in point” is used to introduce a specific example that is directly relevant to the argument or point being discussed.
Description: This phrase is excellent for drawing attention to an example that directly supports your thesis.
Usage Examples:
- There are numerous benefits to exercising regularly. A case in point is the improvement in mental health after consistent workouts.
- The use of social media is controversial. A case in point is the spread of misinformation during elections.
16. To demonstrate
Definition: “To demonstrate” introduces an example that is used to prove or illustrate a point.
Description: This phrase is more formal and is ideal for academic and professional writing when you want to show evidence supporting your argument.
Usage Examples:
- Sustainable practices are essential for environmental conservation. To demonstrate, consider the success of recycling programs.
- Education plays a vital role in personal development. To demonstrate, many successful individuals attribute their achievements to quality education.
17. Take the case of
Definition: “Take the case of” is used to introduce an example that clearly illustrates the point being made.
Description: This phrase is helpful when you want to point to a specific example that clearly supports your argument.
Usage Examples:
- Take the case of the smartphone industry, which has revolutionized communication in the past decade.
- Take the case of climate change, which is affecting ecosystems worldwide.
18. An instance of this is
Definition: “An instance of this is” is used to present a concrete example that helps clarify or demonstrate a broader idea.
Description: This phrase is effective for providing detailed examples that directly reflect the idea or argument you are making.
Usage Examples:
- Pollution is a growing issue. An instance of this is the rising levels of plastic waste in oceans.
- The importance of teamwork cannot be overstated. An instance of this is how successful sports teams collaborate to achieve their goals.
19. This includes
Definition: “This includes” introduces a list of examples that are part of a larger category.
Description: This phrase is great for providing a broad example or range of examples that contribute to the overall argument.
Usage Examples:
- Renewable energy sources are diverse. This includes wind, solar, and geothermal power.
- Effective leadership involves several qualities. This includes communication, problem-solving, and empathy.
Conclusion:
Expanding your vocabulary with alternative phrases for ‘for example’ not only helps in enriching your communication but also adds variety and clarity to your writing.
Whether it’s through expressions like ‘such as,’ ‘like,’ ‘to illustrate,’ or ‘for instance,’ these phrases allow you to present ideas more creatively and engage your audience with precision.
By incorporating these alternatives, you can elevate your language skills and ensure your message is conveyed effectively and with flair.