Example Meaning

UK /ɪɡˈzɑːmpəl/
US /ɪɡˈzæmpəl/
Word Definition
example meaning

Example Definition & Usage

noun

A representative form or model used to illustrate a concept, principle, or procedure.

Examples

  • "Let me give you an example to clarify the point."
  • "This is a prime example of good leadership."
  • "Can you provide an example of how this theory works in practice?"
  • "The teacher gave several examples of historical events."
  • "For example, the solution to the problem is simple once you understand the steps."
noun

A specific case used to demonstrate a grammatical rule or usage.

Examples

  • "In this sentence, 'he ran quickly' is an example of an adverb modifying a verb."
  • "The teacher gave an example of a complex sentence."
  • "They used several examples of irregular verbs to help the students understand the concept."
  • "You should practice writing examples using the past tense."
  • "An example of a direct object in a sentence is 'the book' in 'She reads the book.'"
noun

A person or thing regarded as a model of excellence or perfection.

Examples

  • "Her work ethic is an example for all of us to follow."
  • "The athlete became a role model and an example to young people."
  • "He is an example of what hard work and dedication can achieve."
  • "This new policy is an example of the company's commitment to sustainability."
  • "His courage in the face of adversity is an example for future generations."

Cultural Context

The word 'example' originates from the Latin word 'exemplum,' meaning 'a sample or model.' It has evolved into a common term in both everyday conversation and specialized contexts like education and grammar. In modern English, the word is used to refer to anything that serves as a pattern, illustration, or model. In many cultures, examples play a critical role in teaching and learning, as they provide concrete instances of abstract concepts.

The Perfect Example

Story

The Perfect Example

Once upon a time, in a small town nestled between hills and rivers, there was a teacher named Mr. Rowan. He was known for his creative approach to teaching. One day, he was explaining the concept of 'honesty' to his students. 'Honesty,' he said, 'is like a mirror. If you're honest, you reflect the truth in its purest form.' To make his point clearer, he decided to give an example. He told a story about a young man named Simon who always told the truth, no matter how difficult the situation. 'Simon is an example of true honesty,' Mr. Rowan explained. The students listened attentively. But one student, Alex, seemed puzzled. 'But what about when honesty hurts someone's feelings?' he asked. Mr. Rowan smiled and gave another example. 'Well, sometimes honesty can be difficult,' he admitted, 'but if done with kindness, it can also help people grow.' As the class progressed, Mr. Rowan used more examples to illustrate different values. 'This is an example of courage,' he said, showing a photo of a firefighter rescuing a child from a burning building. 'And here is an example of kindness,' he continued, sharing a story of a stranger who helped an elderly woman carry her groceries. By the end of the lesson, the students had not only learned about honesty, courage, and kindness, but they had also seen how these virtues could be demonstrated in real life. Each example made the lesson come to life, giving them a concrete understanding of abstract concepts. Alex, now deeply moved, turned to his friends and said, 'From now on, I want to be an example, too. I want to be someone who inspires others to be better.' And so, the class ended, with everyone carrying home the lessons of the day—each one now an example of the values they had discussed.

The Perfect Example