Buzz
Examples can be utilized to clarify meaning and add richness to writing, and the phrase "for example" is an excellent way to introduce such instances. Generally, this transitional phrase helps writers smoothly explain the connection between the following content and what has been mentioned earlier. Below are some tips we’ve gathered to help you effectively use "for example" in sentences.
Steps
Place "for example" at the beginning of a sentence if the example is a complete sentence
Use this method if your example includes a subject and a verb and can stand alone. When placed at the beginning of a sentence, the phrase "for example" introduces the example you are about to provide. Here are some sentences with "for example" at the start:
- "Nurture creativity at home. For example, chalkboard paint allows kids to draw on walls."
- "Getting in your daily exercise doesn't have to be difficult. For example, Jaime walks every evening after dinner."
Use "for example" in the middle of a sentence to introduce a list or a phrase
Your example cannot stand alone if it lacks a subject and a verb. In this case, integrate the example into the sentence it describes. Here are some sentences with "for example" placed in the middle:
- "You don't have to splurge on expensive cleaning products. Vinegar, for example, will clean most things."
- "Playing a musical instrument requires skill and practice. Professional guitarists, for example, practice up to 8 hours a day."
Move "for example" to the end of the sentence to improve readability
Sometimes, the phrase "for example" sounds better at the end of a sentence. This approach works best with short and simple examples. If the sentence sounds awkward when read aloud, try placing "for example" at the end. Here are some examples:
- "The diet does require you to eliminate a few things from your diet—sugar, for example."
- "Learn a new language through immersion by changing the default language on your phone, for example."
Place "for example" next to a comma
Commas separate explanatory information from the rest of the sentence. The phrase "for example" informs the reader how the following information relates to the preceding content. Commas enhance readability and clarity. The placement of the comma (before, after, or both) depends on the position of "for example" in the sentence.
- At the beginning: "Many animals are monogamous. For example, otters mate for life."
- In the middle: "Many animals are monogamous. Otters, for example, mate for life."
- At the end: "Many animals are monogamous and mate for life—otters, for example."
Omit the comma when using parentheses
Parentheses already serve to introduce the phrase. Commas are typically used to separate explanatory words from the sentence. When parentheses are used, commas become unnecessary.
- Example: "Becky measured out her ingredients (for example flour and sugar) before she started baking."
Add a comma before "for example" in the middle of a sentence
Use commas before and after the phrase "for example." When placed in the middle of a sentence, "for example" signals a slight shift in focus. This rule also applies when placing "for example" at the end of a sentence, except no comma is needed afterward.
- Middle of the sentence: "Kelly expected us to bring our own supplies, for example, our notebooks and pens."
- End of the sentence: "Kelly expected us to bring our own supplies: our notebooks and pens, for example."
Use a semicolon for better readability
For longer phrases, a semicolon is more effective than a comma. A semicolon indicates a longer pause than a comma and creates a break between two related ideas. It also improves readability if the sentence already contains multiple commas. Typically, the semicolon is placed right before "for example." Here are some examples:
- "Find ways to fit activity into your day; for example, you could take the stairs instead of the elevator."
- "You don't need artistic training or talent to be creative; for example, paint-by-numbers kits allow novices to create beautiful works of art."
Introduce an incomplete list
Use "for example" when referring to a long list of similar items. The list might be too lengthy and cumbersome to write or read. In such cases, you don’t need to list everything—just a few examples will suffice to convey the idea. Here are some examples:
- "Many animals are monogamous. For example, otters, geese, and beavers mate for life."
- "Campers are expected to bring their own supplies and gear. Tents and sleeping bags, for example, will not be provided."
Introduce a hypothetical scenario
Use "for example" before a fictional scenario. Examples allow you to take a theoretical concept and demonstrate how it works in the real world. With "for example," you can apply a concept to a hypothetical situation, showing readers a potential real-world application. Here are some examples:
- "For example, if Judy bakes 4 cakes each day for 5 days, she would bake 20 cakes each week."
- "Children risk injury when playing with dangerous toys. For example, if you buy your child a BB gun, they could shoot their eye out."
Provide illustrative information for the previous idea
Use an example to describe how an idea works in practice. Your illustration can be real or imagined—either way, it adds vividness and depth to your writing. Just as visuals enhance content, verbal illustrations help readers visualize the idea. Here are some examples:
- "Make language learning easier through immersion. For example, you could listen to music in the language you want to learn while doing chores."
- "You don't have to take art classes to be creative. For example, you can use a paint-by-numbers kit to create a piece of art suitable for framing."
Describe one case among many possibilities
"For example" informs readers that your scenario is one of many. The phrase "for instance" is more effective when citing a specific case. However, if your example isn’t tied to a specific instance, "for example" is the better choice. Here are some examples:
- "Many careers require you to perform in high-pressure situations. EMTs, for example, save the lives of people in trauma."
- "Common cooking ingredients often have other uses. For example, you can use baking soda to clean and deodorize your refrigerator."
Emphasize that something is true
Add a specific, real-world example as supporting evidence. This is particularly effective when addressing subjective matters. While you can't conclusively prove a statement, providing supporting evidence can make readers more inclined to believe you.
- Example: "Everyone loves Mary's cupcakes. For example, Julian begs for them even though he doesn't like sweets."
- Another example: "The service at Tom's Diner is too slow. Last night, for example, we had to wait 2 hours for our food!"
Tips
- In academic writing, the abbreviation "e.g." (short for the Latin "exempli gratia") is often used instead of "for example," especially for phrases in parentheses or footnotes.
