Picture this: You’re in the middle of a presentation, or perhaps an English exam, and suddenly you find yourself stuck in a loop, using “for example” again and again. Sounds familiar? It’s not just you! We all tend to fall back on familiar phrases when we’re under stress. But what if you had a pocket full of alternatives, ready to pull out at a moment’s notice? Different ways of introducing examples can add variety to your speech or writing and can make your English sound more fluent and natural. Ready to explore these phrases?
Let’s discover 15 popular and commonly used phrases to say “for example” in English:
1. To illustrate – Used to introduce an example that explains or proves something.
Example: To illustrate, let’s look at the case of…
2. For instance – Another way to introduce an example, slightly more casual than “for example.”
Example: I love reading books, for instance, the works of Hemingway.
3. Such as – Used to give specific examples within a category.
Example: I enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling.
4. In particular – Emphasizes the example is especially relevant.
Example: Some students, in particular, John and Sarah, did exceptionally well.
5. Namely – Used to introduce something specific.
Example: I have one pet, namely a cat.
6. Take, for example – A way of introducing an example that supports your point.
Example: Take, for example, the recent market trends.
7. Case in point – Introduces an example that proves what you’re saying is true.
Example: The latest report is a case in point.
8. As demonstrated by – Introduces an example that demonstrates a fact or argument.
Example: As demonstrated by the success of our last project…
9. As shown by – Similar to “as demonstrated by”, it introduces an example that supports a claim.
Example: As shown by the increase in sales…
10. Consider – Invites the listener or reader to think about an example.
Example: Consider the success of companies like Apple and Google.
11. In the case of – Introduces a specific person or thing that is being discussed or described.
Example: In the case of Jane, the results were astounding.
12. Let’s say – Hypothetical example, used when imagining a situation.
Example: Let’s say you’re given the choice between a job you love and a job that pays well.
13. Suppose – Another way to introduce a hypothetical example.
Example: Suppose you won the lottery. What would you do?
14. Like – Casual and informal, introduces an example or list of examples.
Example: I enjoy creative activities, like painting and drawing.
15. By way of illustration – A formal way to introduce an example.
Example: By way of illustration, let’s consider the recent developments.
With this list of phrases at your disposal, you’re better equipped to avoid overusing “for example” and make your English more diverse and engaging.