Word: example (noun)

Associations

An example is something that is used to show or explain a concept or idea. It helps people understand better.

• For instance, if you say, "For example, apples are fruits," you are using an example to explain what you mean.
• In math class, the teacher might say, "Here is an example of how to solve this equation," to help students understand the process.
• When writing an essay, you might include an example to support your argument, like saying, "Many animals, such as dogs, can be trained."

The word "instance" is a synonym for "example," but "instance" often refers to a specific case or occurrence, while "example" is broader and can refer to any representative case.

Substitution

You can use other words or phrases instead of "example," such as:

• "illustration" – This can imply a visual representation.
• "case" – This often refers to a specific situation.
• "sample" – This can suggest a small part of a larger whole.

Each substitute may slightly change the meaning based on context. For instance, "illustration" is often visual, while "case" is more about a particular situation.

Deconstruction

The word "example" comes from the Latin word "exemplum," which means "a sample" or "a pattern."

• The prefix "ex-" means "out of" or "from."
• The root "empl-" comes from "emere," which means "to take."

This means an example is something taken from a larger group to show a point.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a situation where giving an example helped you understand something better?
• How would you use the word "example" in a conversation about your favorite book or movie?
• What kind of examples do you think are most effective in teaching or explaining ideas?