What is example? Pronunciation and usage in English

example means . Learn how to pronounce and use example through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of example

examplenoun

/ɪɡˈzɑːmpl//ɛɡˈzɑːmpl/
Definition & pronunciation of example

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "example" in English. Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ɪˈzæmpl

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • ɪ (as in "bit") - This is a short, quick "i" sound.
  • ˈzæmpl - This is the tricky part!
    • zæ (as in "adze") - This is a long "a" sound – like the "a" in "father." It’s a bit of a dip in the sound before the "mpl."
    • mpl – This is like "impl" but with a "z" at the beginning. Think of it as a quick, clipped sound.

Here’s a helpful breakdown with sounds:

  1. i (like in “bit”)
  2. z (like in “zoo”)
  3. æ (like in “bat”) – slightly emphasized
  4. m (as in “man”)
  5. p (as in “pen”)
  6. l (as in “love”)

Resources to help you hear it:

Tips:

  • Don’t over-emphasize the "æ" (a) sound. It's a subtle dip.
  • The "z" sound is very short.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a more specific breakdown of a certain part of the word?

Usage and examples with the word example in English

Let's break down how to use the word "example" in English. It's a common and versatile word, but it has a few different ways it can be used. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. As a Noun (the thing being used to illustrate):

  • Meaning: A specific instance or case used as illustration or evidence. It’s a concrete illustration of something.
  • Usage: You’ll often refer to the example itself.
  • Examples:
    • "Could you give me an example of what you mean?" (You want a specific illustration.)
    • "This is a good example of perseverance." (This instance shows perseverance.)
    • "I need an example to understand the concept." (I need a specific case to clarify.)
    • "The teacher provided several examples of the grammar rule." (Different instances were given.)

2. As a Verb (to provide an illustration):

  • Meaning: To serve as an illustration or to show something by giving an instance.
  • Usage: You verb "example" when you're demonstrating something.
  • Examples:
    • "Let me example what I’m talking about." (I’ll show you with an instance.)
    • "He exampled bravery by running into the burning building." (He demonstrated bravery.)
    • "The article examines several historical examples of innovation." (The article looks at several historical instances of innovation.) - Note "examines" is frequently used with "example."

3. Phrases with "Example":

  • "By way of example..." / "For example..." / "As an example...": These phrases introduce an example to support a point.

    • "By way of example, the company invested heavily in new technology."
    • "For example, students can practice writing in a journal."
    • "As an example, it's important to have a backup plan.”

  • "A classic example..." / "A prime example...": These phrases indicate a particularly good or representative illustration.

    • "A classic example of irony is Oedipus Rex."
    • "He's a prime example of someone who works hard to achieve their goals."

  • "Example of...": This is used to follow a noun, describing something.

    • “A beautiful example of art.”
    • “An interesting example of quantum physics.”

Key Differences to Remember:

Feature Example (Noun) Example (Verb)
Function The thing shown The act of showing
Form example (singular) to example (to show)
Sentence Use “This is an example.” “Let me example it.”

Tips for Using "Example" Effectively:

  • Specificity: Good examples should be concrete and easy to understand. Avoid abstract examples.
  • Relevance: Make sure your example directly supports the point you're making.
  • Clarity: Clearly explain why your example is relevant. Don't just throw it out there.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples in a specific context (e.g., business writing, academic writing, conversation)?
  • Explain how "example" is used in a particular sentence?
  • Help you practice using "example" in your own writing?

Synonyms for the word example

Idioms of the word example

for example
used to emphasize something that explains or supports what you are saying; used to give an example of what you are saying
  • There is a similar word in many languages, for example in French and Italian.
  • The report is incomplete; it does not include sales in France, for example.
  • It is possible to combine computer science with other subjects, for example physics.
  • An athlete, for example, might turn the pedals 80 times a minute.
make an example of somebody
to punish somebody as a warning to others not to do the same thing
  • The teacher made an example of him by suspending him from school.

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