What does example mean?
An example is a specific item, case, or person that illustrates a general rule, idea, or quality. When someone says 'for example,' they introduce a concrete instance that clarifies an abstract point. Examples are fundamental to teaching, argument, and communication: a teacher uses worked examples to show how a method applies, while a lawyer cites examples to support a claim. The word also carries a moral dimension — to 'set an example' is to behave in a way others should imitate, and to 'make an example of' someone is to punish them publicly so that others are deterred. Derived from Latin exemplum, meaning a pattern or model, it entered English via Old French in the medieval period. Its derivatives, such as exemplary and exemplify, share this sense of serving as a standard or illustration.
A thing characteristic of its kind or illustrating a general rule; a specimen or instance.
"The cathedral is a striking example of Gothic architecture."
A person or thing to be imitated; a model of good (or bad) behavior.
"He led by example, arriving early every day."
Often used with verbs like 'set', 'follow', or 'lead by'.
A punishment or warning given to others as a deterrent.
"They made an example of him to discourage further misconduct."
A problem or question designed to illustrate a method, especially in mathematics or science.
"Work through the example on page 42 before attempting the exercises."
Standard pluralization; simply add -s.
"The textbook provides many examples of grammatical structures."
The word 'example' once literally meant something 'taken out' — from Latin eximere, to take out — because an example was plucked from the crowd to stand for everyone.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of example
'Example' comes from Latin 'exemplum', meaning a sample, pattern, or model, derived from 'eximere' (to take out), formed from 'ex-' (out) and 'emere' (to take). It passed into English through Old French during the Middle Ages. Cognates and related forms include exemplary, exemplify, and exempt, all rooted in the same Latin verb.
Related word forms
How example is actually used
Neutral register; suitable in formal and informal contexts alike. The phrase 'for example' is extremely common in writing and speech as a discourse marker introducing an illustration.
Easily confused with example
A sample is a small part taken to represent the whole, while an example is an instance used to illustrate a rule, idea, or quality.