Example: Something Taken Out to Stand for the Rest
An example is one case chosen to show what a whole group is like. Its Latin root means taken out, which is exactly the job.
An example is one instance picked out to represent many, or a model to be followed. The Latin *exemplum* comes from *eximere*, to take out — an example is a sample lifted from the pile so the rest can be understood.
- A typical instance. *Give me an example.*
- A model to imitate. *She set an example.*
- A warning to others. *Made an example of him.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun | example | A clear example. |
| Plural | examples | Several examples. |
| Adjective | exemplary | Exemplary conduct. |
| Verb | exemplify | This exemplifies the rule. |
| Abbreviation | e.g. | e.g. apples and pears. |
How it is used in a sentence
- For example, most birds can fly.For example introduces an instance.
- He led by example rather than by orders.A set phrase about leadership.
- The court made an example of the first offender.Here the point is deterrence.
e.g. or i.e.?
- e.g. — *exempli gratia*, for example; introduces some of a set
- i.e. — *id est*, that is; restates or defines
- etc. — *et cetera*, and the rest
- viz. — namely; introduces a full list
- cf. — compare
From Old French, from Latin *exemplum*, a sample or copy, from *eximere*, to take out, built on *ex* (out) and *emere* (to take or buy). The same *emere* is inside *redeem* and *premium*.
Should e.g. be followed by a comma?
In American usage yes: e.g., apples. British style often leaves it out. Be consistent either way.
Example or sample?
An example illustrates; a sample is a physical portion taken for testing or tasting.