example synonym for essay

'For Example' Synonyms: 41 Other Ways to Say 'For Example'

If you're looking to keep your writing varied, you'll want to avoid repetition too often throughout your text. One phrase that is often overused is 'for example.'

In this article:

• You'll discover 41 alternative ways to say 'for example,' from the simple to the more complex.

'For Example' Synonyms

'For example' is a phrase you use if you want to illustrate what you've just said so your reader can better understand what you mean. Sometimes examples are more effective than the argument itself in conveying meaning. But the problem is, if your text contains a lot of examples, you might find yourself repeating the phrase over and over.

• One determiner of a good writer is a rich vocabulary.
• When readers peruse your text, they'll notice that you're often repeating the same words or phrases.

The average dictionary contains over 300,000 words, and it's reported that people know approximately 40,000 of them . It's pretty much guaranteed there'll always be an alternative word you can use instead of recycling the same old stuff.

Today we will look at other ways to say 'for example.' If you write a lot , it's a phrase you probably use often. And let me tell you, there are most definitely alternatives out there that you'll like.

'For Example' Alternatives

Depending on the topic you're writing about, you might want to adjust the complexity level.

For general writing, the Hemingway app says writing at a Grade 6 level is a good place to aim for, as this keeps your text nice and easy to read. After all, you just want to get your point across. If your audience has to struggle over tedious and complex nouns , verbs , and adjectives , they'll just lose patience and look for another article with better readability.

• Additionally, keeping your language friendly and conversational is a style choice and one we love here at writingtips.org.

In line with those findings, here are some simple alternatives for 'for example.' These words and phrases are pretty much synonymous with 'for example.' You can use them and follow them up with your example.

1. For instance 2. Such as 3. To give you an idea 4. Imagine 5. Picture this 6. Say that

I'll use some of these in a sentence to demonstrate:

Choose the membership that suits your needs. For instance, if you work 9-5, you'll want the option to access the gym during peak hours. Savanna animals are some of the fastest on the planet. To give you an idea , cheetahs can run up to 120 kilometers per hour. His behavior is a perfect case in point for what I was saying earlier.

More Complex Options

Simple language isn't always what you're aiming for. Sometimes you might want something a little more formal or advanced. Some texts call for that: academic journals, textbooks, or business presentations, to name a few.

In those scenarios, here are some more complex variations of the phrase 'for example:'

7. To illustrate 8. Suppose that 9. By way of example 10. By way of illustration 11. To demonstrate 12. To exemplify 13. Case in point

Some of these are also more complex because of their required sentence structure. 'Suppose that,' for instance, calls for the past indefinite tense, making the entire sentence much more challenging to read.

Let me illustrate:

Suppose that it started raining, and we were trapped outside with no umbrellas.

These are great for embellishing your text and are super easy to use in a sentence.

Case in point:

Here are some case studies to illustrate my point. By way of example, he referred to specific clients throughout his presentation.  His behavior is a perfect case in point for what I was saying earlier.

Phrases to Use Instead of 'For Example'

There are also ways that you can explain yourself without giving an example . These phrases aren't exactly synonyms of 'for example,' but they allow you to make your point.

14. In other words 15. In layman's terms 16. More specifically 17. Namely 18. In light of 19. Think about it as if 20. By and large 21. In the same vein

Let's look at some examples of these in a sentence, so you can see how to use them and how exactly they help you illustrate your idea.

I'm done with this place. In other words, I'm leaving! I learned something very interesting today; namely that nature is infinitely clever. Cinammon rolls are by and large the best pastry out there.

Other Ways to Say 'For Example'

There are lots of other ways that you can introduce an example in your speech or writing . These words aren't exactly synonyms of 'for example,' but they represent alternative ways to present your argument.

22. as documented 23. as illustrated 24. as revealed 25. as suggested 26. examples include 27. let's say 28. additionally 29. consequently 30. indeed 31. similarly 32. in fact 33. in particular 34. to clarify 35. to explain 36. consider this 37. look at it this way 38. think of it this way 39. figures that show this 40. this would be like 41. with this in mind

Abbreviations to Substitute 'For Example'

Have you ever heard of abbreviations? They're words that have been shortened for simplicity. The two abbreviations that are commonly used to mean 'for example' in the English language are: 'e.g.,' and 'i.e.,'

• However, 'i.e.,' isn't always appropriate as a stand-in for 'for example.'

Let me explain.

I.e. , stands for the Latin id est , which means:

So what it actually means is "in other words." It's intended to be used as a way to explain something in more detail, which, granted, is close in meaning to 'for example,' but not entirely the same.

Here are some ways you can use 'i.e':

I'm grateful for the growth in popularity of eco-friendly traveling , i.e. , cycling, hiking, and carpooling. She was vegetarian, i.e., she didn't eat any meat or fish.

You can see in the first sentence that the meaning is very close to 'for example.' A good rule of thumb is to replace 'i.e.' with 'that is,' and if it works, you're onto a winner.

E.g., however, is an excellent substitute for 'for example.' It stands for exempli gratia , which means 'for example' in Latin. So you see, it's more than just a synonym; it's quite literally the same word!

Use, 'e.g., ' to your heart's content in your sentences, for instance:

They've decided they're going somewhere warm for our honeymoon, e.g. Thailand or the Caribbean. Can you give us more specific guidelines, e.g. , a deadline and expected outcomes?

Concluding Thoughts

As you can see, you can use many words and phrases instead of 'for example.' Just take your pick!

Don't stress about it, though; it's okay to recycle words two or three times in a text; what matters is that you aren't always using the same ones. That's why it's great to have alternatives.

To summarize:

• Keep it simple and use easy-to-understand words or phrases unless you're intentionally trying to make your text complex.
• Use 'e.g.,' as a replacement for 'for example,' but remember that, 'i.e.,' isn't always appropriate.
• Keep your text varied, and have fun with it!

If you found this article helpful and want to keep on improving your English skills, check out our ever-growing database of useful articles on our blog .

Learn More:

• 83 Ways to Say 'Goodbye'
• 17 Ways to Say 'To Whom It May Concern'
• 21 Ways to Say 'Thank You'
• 51 Ways to Say 'Happy Birthday'
• 109 Ways to Say 'Hello'
• 41 Different Ways to Say 'I Love You'
• 77 Ways to Say 'Have a Good Day'
• 105 Different Ways to Say 'Yes'
• 110 Ways to Say 'Good Job'
• 83 Ways to Say 'Good Night'
• 115 Ways to Say 'Hello' in Different Languages
• 103 Ways to Say 'Good Luck'
• 131+ Ways to Say 'Hi' or 'Hello'
• 60 Ways to Say 'Rest in Peace'
• 115 Ways to Say 'According To'

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28 Alternative Ways to Say “For Example” to Spice Up Your Writing

By: Author Hiuyan Lam

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Vocabulary Boosters

As a writer, you’re tasked with coming up with new and interesting ways to say the same things, such as finding another way to say “For example”.

This may sound complicated at first, but if you want to be original and stand out, you’ve got to get those creative juices flowing. For example, when you’re supporting a point or clarifying an argument.

You can also say “For example” when using an example, to make your writing/speech more memorable or for emphasis.

By now, you may have noticed “For example” a few times, and it’s getting a bit repetitive. This is exactly what we mean by you needing another way to say it!

While you brainstorm another way to say “For example”, check out this list we made that you can use in your writing right now:

Another way to say “For example”: 10 alternative ways when you introduce an example to support your point

  We use examples to support a point to give it more weight, or to strengthen it. In this instance, you are providing the audience/reader with proof or a reference to work with.   Your point will be better received if you have concrete proof, along with qualitative or quantifiable evidence. Use this list to find another way to say “For example” when introducing an example to support your point:  

You May Also Like:

25 Alternative Ways to Say “Looking Forward to Working with You”

Another way to say “For example”: 9 alternative ways when you provide an example to help your audience/readers understand your argument better

  Examples are very useful when making a point because they give the audience/readers something to contrast/compare it to from their everyday lives. This makes complicated concepts simpler and allows the audience/readers to realize something or make a connection they would not have before.   Browse this list of alternatives to find another way to say “For example” to help your audience/readers better understand your argument:  

Another way to say “For example”: 9 alternative ways when you introduce an example to make your writing/speech more memorable for your audience/readers

  Examples are also important when writing or making a speech because they help to make it more memorable. This is where you pull out examples that make the audience/readers think or compare them to their life experiences.   These types of examples include the audience/reader in your speech/writing, thus having a greater impact. You can find another way to say “For example” in this scenario below:  

32 of the Best Responses for When Someone Says “Thank You for Your Service”

  If you need to spice up your writing, there are some subtle changes you can make that will make a huge impact. Finding another way to say “For example” is just one of them, but the point is, be creative!   Try to say it in an impactful and unique way. Have fun with it and don’t take yourself too seriously (except, of course, when the situation calls for seriousness).  

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13 Fresh Ways to Say "For Example"

Published: June 16, 2023

Examples are illuminating, whether you're sharing one during a meeting, over an email, on a sales call, giving a presentation, writing a memo, etc. 

But, as you may know, the effective "for example" is hard to find synonyms for despite how often we use it. In this post, we'll go over a list of "for example" synonyms and the best use cases for each one.

For Example' Synonym Phrases

• "For instance ..."
• "To give you an idea …"
• "As proof …"
• "Suppose that …"
• "To illustrate …"
• "Imagine …"
• "Pretend that …"
• "To show you what I mean …"
• "Let's say …"
• "Case in point …"
• "Such as ..."
• "In particular ..."

1. "For instance ..."

"For example" and "for instance" can be used interchangeably.

• "Our product has several features your reps will love; for instance , they can schedule a series of emails …"

Best For: “For instance…” is best for formal writing. You could use this as a replacement when you explain use cases for your product during initial email outreach to prospects. 

2. "To give you an idea …"

Use this phrase to introduce a use case or example.

• "The right training program will ‘stick' for months and months. To give you an idea , Abel Co.'s sales team's average productivity rate per rep increased by 30% in the first quarter after our workshop -- and it's stayed within two percentage points ever since."

Best For: “To give you an idea…” is useful for informal and formal situations. 

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3. "As proof …"

After you make a point, say "as proof" followed by an anecdote or statistic.

• "Unhealthy snacks might be hurting employee satisfaction more than you'd think. As proof , HereNow's eNPS score went up 10 points once we revamped their office ‘pantry.'"

Best for: “As proof…” is useful for informal and formal situations when giving an example that supports your point. 

4. "Suppose that …"

This phrase makes your listener the star of the story, which helps grab and keep their attention.

• "Surprisingly, most salespeople spend the majority of their day on non-selling tasks. Suppose that all the time you currently spend in your CRM could be put toward emailing, calling, and meeting with prospects."

Best For: “Suppose that…” is useful for informal and formal writing to introduce a situational example. 

5. "To illustrate …"

When you want to prove your point, try this expression.

• "Everyone needs a good cybersecurity strategy -- even if you're not in a ‘risky' industry. To illustrate , we just protect a client in the consumer pet space, of all things, from an extremely sophisticated attack that would've taken every single one of their 100 stores offline for hours, maybe even days."

Best For: “To illustrate…” is useful in formal situations. 

6. "Imagine …"

Asking the other person to imagine themselves in a relevant situation makes them likelier to believe you.

• " Imagine every single franchise you own doubled their sales. What impact would that have on your life?"

Best For: “Imagine…” is best for informal situations, like if you’ve already built rapport with someone. 

7. "Pretend that …"

Along similar lines, "Pretend XYZ happened" is another effective alternative to "for example."

• "Onboarding has a huge impact on your retention rate. Pretend new employees could spend their first 10 days learning about your product, team, culture, and customers. What impact would that have on their performance?"

Best For: “Pretend that…” is useful in informal situations when giving an example that sets the scene. 

8. "To show you what I mean …"

If you're using content -- like a customer testimonial, video, blog post, case study, press release, etc. -- to prove your point, this phrase comes in handy.

• "Millennials work harder when they feel they are contributing to a larger purpose. To show you what I mean , here's an article about what happened when we rolled out a ‘Danco Cares' internal marketing campaign."

Best For: “To show you what I mean…” is best for informal situations. 

9. "Let's say …"

"Let's say" is a folksy alternative to "imagine" or "suppose."

• " Let's say you could attract five times more people to your website."

Best For : “Let’s say….” is most often used in informal situations, but can be used formally as well. 

10. "Case in point …"

For the times you've made a bold claim and need to back it up with the perfect example, go for "case in point …"

• "It might sound too good to be true, but simply adding more recycle bins can make your restaurant produce far less trash. Case in point : We put three bins inside Pita Palace's Westwood location and removed one trash bin, and waste decreased by 13.9%."

Best For: “Case in point…” works informally and formally. 

This Latin abbreviation (which is always lowercase) means "for example."

• "You have a lot of opportunity to grow, e.g. , it doesn't sound like you've optimized your pricing page in years."

Best For: “E.g.,” is best suited for formal writing. The same goes for i.e., which are often used interchangeably. 

12. "Such as ..."

If you need to illustrate a certain point, use " such as " to explain further.

• " Clients who used the Standard CRM saw positive changes for their sales teams, such as productivity increases of 15% and a 40% increase in sales revenue."

Best For: “Such as…” can be formal and informal. 

13. "In particular ..."

Is there a certain section of your message you'd like to emphasize? If so, try using " in particular " to highlight the areas of emphasis.

• " With a custom email sending IP address, your email strategy will reap many benefits. In particular , you'll see an improvement in email deliverability. "

Best For: “In particular…” is effective for informal and formal situations. 

With 13 alternatives to choose from, you'll never have to use "for example" again and again ... well, again. To learn more, check out this follow-up thank you email next.

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40 Other Ways to Say for Example/Other Words for for Example

englishlearnerzone

If you want to learn different 40 other ways to say for example , this lesson is the one you need.

When writing a paragraph or an essay it is often good to support your statements by giving examples. If you’d like to introduce examples in an essay, you can use the phrase for example or other phrases. In this post, you’ll learn other ways to say for example in an essay ; other words for for example in English.

Other Ways to Say for Example in an Essay

What’s another way to say for example? What are the different ways to say for example in an essay?

Here are some other ways to say for example in an essay or any other piece of writing.

• For example, …
• For instance, …
• Such as…
• e.g. ( For example abbreviation )
• Especially, …
• Particularly, …
• In particular, …
• A case in point is…
• Examples include…
• As a case in point,
• As an example,
• One example is…
• Like…
• As in…
• In other words,…
• Namely…
• That is to say,
• By way of illustration, …
• Let’s say …

The ‘ for example synonym abbreviation is e.g. This abbreviation is normally preceded by a comma. i.e. is another abbreviation that you can use to give an example or explain the idea you have mentioned before.

This for example synonyms list continues below.

10 Other Ways to Say for Example

• To illustrate, …
• To give you an idea …
• This includes …
• Including…
• To give an example…
• Among others…
• One instance of this is…
• A typical example is…
• To demonstrate
• As evidence …
• To show …
• To specify …
• To make it concrete …
• To elucidate …
• To exemplify
• To reveal …
• A good illustration of this is…
• To demonstrate …
• As an illustration …
• To shed light on…
• To highlight …

Other Ways to Say for Example

These alternatives to ‘for example’ can add variety to your writing and speaking when giving examples to support your ideas in writing and speaking.

For Example Synonyms with Example Sentences

Here are different other ways to say for example in sentences . These other words for for example in sentences will help you learn how to use for example synonyms correctly.

• She loves different types of movies such as science fiction movies, thrillers, and documentaries.
• Many fruits like oranges, mangoes, and pineapples, are very rich in vitamin C.
• The attendees of this international conference are from different countries, including Japan, China, Germany, and Singapore.
• My son excels in several subjects, to illustrate , Maths, Physics, Informatics, and languages.
• I have got a variety of hobbies, namely traveling, reading surfing, and cycling.
• To make it concrete, let’s examine the effects of exercise on overall well-being.
• Some British universities, for instance , the University of Leeds, offer special courses in English for overseas students.
• Our restaurant offers international dishes. This includes Paella and Poutine .
• All my colleagues attended the farewell party, including Peter and Tim.
• Several objects disappeared from my pencil case, namely a black pen, a pencil, and a rubber.
• We need to get there early so as to get good seats. Let’s say 4 p.m.
• The traffic was very bad, particularly in the city center.
• We import clothes from different countries, e.g. Turkey, China, and Thailand.

For Example Synonyms for IELTS

The following for example synonyms can be used in the IELTS speaking examination.

You can practice using these phrases and expressions instead of saying for example. It will make your speech smooth and fluent. The use of such expressions can help you get a better score on your IELTS speaking test.

For Example Synonyms for IELTS in Sentences

• As for sports, I practice many like football, basketball, and tennis.

Other Words for for Example

Giving Examples Exercise

• Exercise: Use suitable example phrases to complete the following sentences. Use the example phrases between brackets (for example, such as, a case in point, especially, )
• Some courses ………….. MBA requires work experience.
• Many universities and colleges, ………………………… UK ones, ask overseas students for IELTS scores.
• Many plants and animals are threatened by global warming. In southern Britain,……………………., the beech tree may become extinct within 30 years.
• Some subjects are heavily oversubscribed. ……………………………. is medicine.
• Some animals can migrate to cooler areas ……………………….are birds, which can move easily.

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• 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays

To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.

Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.

It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.

If you’re interested in developing your language and persuasive skills, Oxford Royale offers summer courses at its Oxford Summer School , Cambridge Summer School , London Summer School , San Francisco Summer School and Yale Summer School . You can study courses to learn english , prepare for careers in law , medicine , business , engineering and leadership.

General explaining

Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.

1. In order to

Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”

2. In other words

Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”

3. To put it another way

Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”

4. That is to say

Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”

5. To that end

Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”

Adding additional information to support a point

Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument . Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.

6. Moreover

Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”

7. Furthermore

Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”

8. What’s more

Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”

9. Likewise

Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”

10. Similarly

Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”

11. Another key thing to remember

Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”

12. As well as

Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”

13. Not only… but also

Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”

14. Coupled with

Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”

15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…

Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.

16. Not to mention/to say nothing of

Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”

Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast

When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.

17. However

Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”

18. On the other hand

Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”

19. Having said that

Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”

20. By contrast/in comparison

Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”

21. Then again

Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”

22. That said

Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”

Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”

Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations

Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.

24. Despite this

Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”

25. With this in mind

Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”

26. Provided that

Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”

27. In view of/in light of

Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”

28. Nonetheless

Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”

29. Nevertheless

Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”

30. Notwithstanding

Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”

Giving examples

Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.

31. For instance

Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”

32. To give an illustration

Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”

Signifying importance

When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.

33. Significantly

Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”

34. Notably

Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”

35. Importantly

Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”

Summarising

You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.

36. In conclusion

Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”

37. Above all

Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”

38. Persuasive

Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”

39. Compelling

Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”

40. All things considered

Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”

How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.

At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer a number of  summer school courses for young people who are keen to improve their essay writing skills. Click here to apply for one of our courses today, including law , business , medicine  and engineering .

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Synonyms of example

• as in instance
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Thesaurus Definition of example

Synonyms & Similar Words

• illustration
• representative
• exemplification
• case in point
• manifestation
• cross section
• locus classicus

Synonym Chooser

How is the word example distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of example are case , illustration , instance , sample , and specimen . While all these words mean "something that exhibits distinguishing characteristics in its category," example applies to a typical, representative, or illustrative instance or case.

When could case be used to replace example ?

While in some cases nearly identical to example , case is used to direct attention to a real or assumed occurrence or situation that is to be considered, studied, or dealt with.

When would illustration be a good substitute for example ?

The meanings of illustration and example largely overlap; however, illustration applies to an instance offered as a means of clarifying or illuminating a general statement.

Where would instance be a reasonable alternative to example ?

In some situations, the words instance and example are roughly equivalent. However, instance applies to any individual person, act, or thing that may be offered to illustrate or explain.

When is sample a more appropriate choice than example ?

Although the words sample and example have much in common, sample implies a part or unit taken at random from a larger whole and so presumed to be typical of its qualities.

When might specimen be a better fit than example ?

The words specimen and example can be used in similar contexts, but specimen applies to any example or sample whether representative or merely existent and available.

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noun as in written discourse

Strongest matches

• dissertation

Strong matches

• composition
• disquisition
• explication

noun as in try, attempt

• undertaking

Weak matches

• one's all
• one's level best

verb as in try, attempt

• have a crack
• have a shot
• make a run at
• put to the test
• take a stab at
• take a whack at

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Related words.

Words related to essay are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word essay . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

verb as in point or direct at a goal

• concentrate
• contemplate
• set one's sights on

noun as in piece of writing

• think piece

verb as in try, make effort

• do level best
• exert oneself
• give a fling
• give a whirl
• give best shot
• give it a go
• give it a try
• give old college try
• go the limit
• have a go at
• shoot the works
• take best shot
• try one's hand at

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Example Sentences

As several of my colleagues commented, the result is good enough that it could pass for an essay written by a first-year undergraduate, and even get a pretty decent grade.

GPT-3 also raises concerns about the future of essay writing in the education system.

This little essay helps focus on self-knowledge in what you’re best at, and how you should prioritize your time.

As Steven Feldstein argues in the opening essay, technonationalism plays a part in the strengthening of other autocracies too.

He’s written a collection of essays on civil engineering life titled Bridginess, and to this day he and Lauren go on “bridge dates,” where they enjoy a meal and admire the view of a nearby span.

I think a certain kind of compelling essay has a piece of that.

The current attack on the Jews,” he wrote in a 1937 essay, “targets not just this people of 15 million but mankind as such.

The impulse to interpret seems to me what makes personal essay writing compelling.

To be honest, I think a lot of good essay writing comes out of that.

Someone recently sent me an old Joan Didion essay on self-respect that appeared in Vogue.

There is more of the uplifted forefinger and the reiterated point than I should have allowed myself in an essay.

Consequently he was able to turn in a clear essay upon the subject, which, upon examination, the king found to be free from error.

It is no part of the present essay to attempt to detail the particulars of a code of social legislation.

But angels and ministers of grace defend us from ministers of religion who essay art criticism!

It is fit that the imagination, which is free to go through all things, should essay such excursions.

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On this page you'll find 154 synonyms, antonyms, and words related to essay, such as: article, discussion, dissertation, manuscript, paper, and piece.

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

How to Write an Example Essay

Jered slusher.

The example essay is one of the most basic essays in academic writing, but can be extremely difficult if you've never written one or do not know what to write about. Example essays focus on one main idea which you prove with several specific, convincing examples. If you're stuck on how to write an example essay, you can follow a few simple steps to dig yourself out of the rut and write an example essay that you can be proud of.

Explore this article

• Review your example essay assignment sheet
• Brainstorm example essay topics
• Write a thesis statement for each topic
• Write down three to five examples to prove your thesis statement for each topic
• Choose the topic
• Sit down and write your example essay
• Edit your example essay
• Revise your example essay

1 Review your example essay assignment sheet

Review your example essay assignment sheet. List the criteria of the essay on a separate sheet of paper. Make note of anything that confuses you and ask your professor for clarification.

2 Brainstorm example essay topics

Brainstorm example essay topics. List three to five topics that you are interested in or would like to write about. Brainstorm ideas for what you’re going to write if the assignment is specifically about one topic. Make a sub-list for each topic that you could write about.

3 Write a thesis statement for each topic

Write a thesis statement for each topic. A thesis statement is a single sentence that you will argue in your paper. For example, if you were to write on the topic of dog training, you could have a thesis statement such as “Dogs listen better to trainers who use positive rewards instead of scolding and hitting.”

4 Write down three to five examples to prove your thesis statement for each topic

Write down three to five examples to prove your thesis statement for each topic. Use the “SEE” model as a formula for each example. “S” stands for “statement” and is a reiteration of what you’re trying to prove. For example, your statement could be that a dog trainer who rewards a dog for relieving itself outside sees faster and more permanent results than a trainer who scolds a dog for doing it inside. The first “E” stands for “example” and is the proof that you need to back up what you say in your statement. Provide specific examples to prove your statement. The last “E” stands for “Explanation” and is used to reiterate how your example ties into the thesis. For example, you might explain that because the first trainer used positive rewards, he saw better results than the trainer who scolded the dog. Therefore, trainers should use positive rewards when potty training a dog.

5 Choose the topic

Choose the topic you most want to write about. Pick the topic that is most interesting and that has enough clear and convincing examples to prove your point.

6 Sit down and write your example essay

Sit down and write your example essay. Write an introductory paragraph that gives background information into your topic and draws the reader into the essay. Write your body paragraphs using the “SEE” model examples you came up with. Write your conclusion by tying in all of the examples and restating how the examples relate to your thesis.

7 Edit your example essay

Edit your example essay. Read back through your essay and make sure that all of your examples prove your point adequately. Have a friend read your essay and ask her what she thinks could be explained more clearly.

8 Revise your example essay

Revise your example essay. Print a copy of the essay, and use a pen to go through and correct any grammar or mechanical errors that you find.

• 1 Academic Resource Center of Wheeling Jesuit University: How Do I Write an Example/Illustration Essay?

About the Author

Jered Slusher, born in 1987, has been writing online articles since 2005. His poetry and academic essays have appeared in The Ohio State University at Lima "Hog Creek Review." He holds a bachelor's in English from The Ohio State University.

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Synonyms of 'for example' in British English

• for example

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• The four main types of essay | Quick guide with examples

The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples

Published on September 4, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.

Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. At university level, argumentative essays are the most common type. 

In high school and college, you will also often have to write textual analysis essays, which test your skills in close reading and interpretation.

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Table of contents

Argumentative essays, expository essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, textual analysis essays, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about types of essays.

An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement —a clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations ) and analysis.

Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic. This is the most common type of essay at college level—most papers you write will involve some kind of argumentation.

The essay is divided into an introduction, body, and conclusion:

• The introduction provides your topic and thesis statement
• The body presents your evidence and arguments
• The conclusion summarizes your argument and emphasizes its importance

The example below is a paragraph from the body of an argumentative essay about the effects of the internet on education. Mouse over it to learn more.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a topic. It doesn’t require an original argument, just a balanced and well-organized view of the topic.

Expository essays test your familiarity with a topic and your ability to organize and convey information. They are commonly assigned at high school or in exam questions at college level.

The introduction of an expository essay states your topic and provides some general background, the body presents the details, and the conclusion summarizes the information presented.

A typical body paragraph from an expository essay about the invention of the printing press is shown below. Mouse over it to learn more.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

A narrative essay is one that tells a story. This is usually a story about a personal experience you had, but it may also be an imaginative exploration of something you have not experienced.

Narrative essays test your ability to build up a narrative in an engaging, well-structured way. They are much more personal and creative than other kinds of academic writing . Writing a personal statement for an application requires the same skills as a narrative essay.

A narrative essay isn’t strictly divided into introduction, body, and conclusion, but it should still begin by setting up the narrative and finish by expressing the point of the story—what you learned from your experience, or why it made an impression on you.

Mouse over the example below, a short narrative essay responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” to explore its structure.

Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.

Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involve—I really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.

A young man in jeans, Mr. Jones—“but you can call me Rob”—was far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, I’d discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.

The experience has taught me to look at things a little more “philosophically”—and not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught me—in more ways than one—to look at things with an open mind.

A descriptive essay provides a detailed sensory description of something. Like narrative essays, they allow you to be more creative than most academic writing, but they are more tightly focused than narrative essays. You might describe a specific place or object, rather than telling a whole story.

Descriptive essays test your ability to use language creatively, making striking word choices to convey a memorable picture of what you’re describing.

A descriptive essay can be quite loosely structured, though it should usually begin by introducing the object of your description and end by drawing an overall picture of it. The important thing is to use careful word choices and figurative language to create an original description of your object.

Mouse over the example below, a response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” to learn more about descriptive essays.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

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Though every essay type tests your writing skills, some essays also test your ability to read carefully and critically. In a textual analysis essay, you don’t just present information on a topic, but closely analyze a text to explain how it achieves certain effects.

Rhetorical analysis

A rhetorical analysis looks at a persuasive text (e.g. a speech, an essay, a political cartoon) in terms of the rhetorical devices it uses, and evaluates their effectiveness.

The goal is not to state whether you agree with the author’s argument but to look at how they have constructed it.

The introduction of a rhetorical analysis presents the text, some background information, and your thesis statement; the body comprises the analysis itself; and the conclusion wraps up your analysis of the text, emphasizing its relevance to broader concerns.

The example below is from a rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech . Mouse over it to learn more.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

Literary analysis

A literary analysis essay presents a close reading of a work of literature—e.g. a poem or novel—to explore the choices made by the author and how they help to convey the text’s theme. It is not simply a book report or a review, but an in-depth interpretation of the text.

Literary analysis looks at things like setting, characters, themes, and figurative language. The goal is to closely analyze what the author conveys and how.

The introduction of a literary analysis essay presents the text and background, and provides your thesis statement; the body consists of close readings of the text with quotations and analysis in support of your argument; and the conclusion emphasizes what your approach tells us about the text.

Mouse over the example below, the introduction to a literary analysis essay on Frankenstein , to learn more.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, protagonist Victor Frankenstein is a stable representation of the callous ambition of modern science throughout the novel. This essay, however, argues that far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to portray Frankenstein in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as. This essay begins by exploring the positive portrayal of Frankenstein in the first volume, then moves on to the creature’s perception of him, and finally discusses the third volume’s narrative shift toward viewing Frankenstein as the creature views him.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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At high school and in composition classes at university, you’ll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.

Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word “explain” suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word “describe” implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word “assess” or “argue.”

The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.

Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:

• In a literary analysis essay, you might make an argument for a specific interpretation of a text
• In a history essay, you might present an argument for the importance of a particular event
• In a politics essay, you might argue for the validity of a certain political theory

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

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