Another word for for example
The best other words for for example are e.g., chiefly, to be specific and for instance.
- Most formal
- e.g., to illustrate, namely
- Strongest
- notably, for instance, e.g.
- Casual
- like, say, for one thing
- Instead of “for a simple example”
- for instance, for example, as an example
For example /fɔr ɪɡˈzæmpəl/ (phrase): used to introduce one or more things that illustrate a general statement. In simple words: used to introduce one example of something. Below are 16 rated synonyms across 3 senses, plus 30 more related words. Tap a chip for its nuance and an example.
18 synonyms shown
Illustrative intro · phrase
introduces a specific example
In-particular marker · phrase
adds a specific instance or case
Explanatory marker · phrase
introduces a clarifying example or case
Find the right strength and register
Drag the amber target to how strong and how formal you need the word to be. The three closest synonyms light up.
You asked for: equal strength, neutral register
- for instance — Standard, slightly more direct example marker
- such as — Introduces items within a category
- e.g. — Abbreviated, compact, written-only example marker
The dashed ring marks “for example” itself: neutral strength, neutral register.
Synonyms for for example in your sentence
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How to choose
Use “for example” in most everyday and academic writing when you want a neutral, natural example marker. Choose “e.g.” only in formal writing or notes, and reserve “namely” or “more specifically” for cases where you are narrowing to a precise item rather than giving a loose illustration.
Antonyms of for example
- for instance?
- in general
- generally
- on the whole
- overall
- by contrast
- instead
All synonyms at a glance
| Synonym | Strength | Formality | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| for instance | 3/5 | neutral | academic, business, casual |
| e.g. | 3/5 | formal | academic, business |
| such as | 3/5 | neutral | academic, business, casual |
| like | 2/5 | casual | casual, creative |
| say | 2/5 | casual | casual, creative, business |
| to illustrate | 3/5 | formal | academic, business |
| namely | 3/5 | formal | academic, business |
| particularly | 3/5 | neutral | academic, business, casual |
| especially | 3/5 | neutral | academic, business, casual |
| chiefly | 3/5 | formal | academic, business |
| more specifically | 3/5 | formal | academic, business |
| in particular | 3/5 | neutral | academic, business, casual |
| notably | 4/5 | formal | academic, business |
| to be specific | 3/5 | neutral | academic, business, casual |
| for one thing | 2/5 | casual | casual, business, creative |
| in other words | 3/5 | neutral | academic, business, casual |
Instead of “very for example”
One precise word usually beats an intensifier. See the full words instead of “very” list.
| Instead of | Try |
|---|---|
| for a simple example | for instance, for example, as an example |
| for just one example | for instance, to illustrate, for example |
| for a quick example | for instance, as an example, say |
More words related to for example
Looser matches and phrases, unrated. Check the sense before you swap one in, or compare it with “for example”.
- as an example
- to give an example
- to demonstrate
- to show
- illustratively
- as evidence
- as proof
- in illustration
- in demonstration
- to cite one example
- case in point
- one example is
- suppose
- to cite
- to name one
- to mention one
- as a case
- as a sample
- by way of example
- in one case
- in one instance
- one such example
- a good example is
- this includes
- this means
- that is
- in effect
- as proof of this
- as an instance
- to exemplify
Questions about synonyms for for example
What is the most formal or academic alternative to “for example”?
“E.g.” is the most compact academic alternative in writing, but it is best in parentheses or lists rather than flowing prose. In full prose, “for instance” or “namely” is often clearer and more elegant.
What is a stronger or milder alternative to “for example”?
A milder, more conversational choice is “like” or “say.” A stronger, more emphatic choice is “notably” or “especially,” which highlights the example more forcefully.
Can I always replace “for example” with “such as”?
Not always. “Such as” usually introduces items that are part of a category, while “for example” can introduce a single illustration or a fuller explanatory case. Use “such as” when the items feel like members of a list, not just one-off examples.
What is a simpler way to say “for example”?
Common simple choices are “like,” “such as,” and “for instance.” Use the one that fits the sentence best: “such as” usually comes before a list, while “for instance” often introduces one example.
What is a more formal phrase than “for example”?
Formal options include “for instance,” “to illustrate,” and “by way of example.” These are common in writing, especially when you want to sound clear and precise.