example
Meaning: A thing characteristic of its kind; a specimen to be imitated
An example is a representative instance used to illustrate a point or serve as a model. It can also mean a warning or deterrent. Common expressions include 'for example' (introducing an illustration), 'set an example' (serve as a model for others), 'make an example of' (punish as a warning), and 'lead by example.'
Examples
- Could you give me an example of what you mean? 你能给我举个例子说明你的意思吗?¿Podrías darme un ejemplo de lo que quieres decir?どういう意味か例を挙げてもらえますか?무슨 뜻인지 예를 들어 주시겠어요?
- She sets a good example for her younger siblings. 她给弟弟妹妹们树立了好榜样。Ella da un buen ejemplo a sus hermanos menores.彼女は弟妹たちに良い手本を示しています。그녀는 동생들에게 좋은 본보기가 되고 있습니다.
- For example, some birds migrate thousands of miles each year. 例如,有些鸟每年会迁徙数千英里。Por ejemplo, algunas aves migran miles de kilómetros cada año.例えば、毎年何千マイルも渡りをする鳥もいます。예를 들어, 매년 수천 마일을 이동하는 새들도 있습니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin 'exemplum' meaning 'a sample, a pattern', from 'eximere' (to take out: ex- 'out' + emere 'to take'). The idea was of taking something out of a group to represent the whole.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
Story & Trivia
From Latin 'exemplum' meaning 'a sample, pattern.' The Romans used it to describe something taken out (ex-) of a larger group (-emere, to take) to represent the whole - much like how we still use examples today.
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