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to instance

to instance

1 5.4
To give an example to support a point
  • verb
  • /ˈɪnstəns/
translation icon : citar
  • In stressing that his most able patients had much to contribute to society, he instanced cases in which the single-minded pursuit of one activity since early childhood had led to professional success in mathematics, music, astronomy, and technology.

Examples

  • During the debate, he instanced historical events to illustrate his points.

  • In her presentation, she instanced several scientific studies to support her argument.

  • Now, when it comes to actions, for instance, treat, well, obviously that works.

  • I mean, for me it really depends because for instance, I only really use my Apple Watch when I exercise.

  • So, you know, we all know that our planets, for instance, in our solar system orbit the sun.

  • Does it matter, for instance, that the there is a very reputable survey which shows a very different result.

  • You can almost see him thinking, see the wheels turning when, for instance, he is explaining why he likes Judge Judy.

  • What what I hear, what I've heard over the years talking to gang members is that in places like El Salvador, for instance, they don't have to recruit.

  • The teacher instanced famous authors when discussing different writing styles.

Synonyms

to cite
vsto instance
421 3.6

To mention a source to support a statement

focuses on giving a concrete example rather than mentioning sources
to instantiate
vsto instance
  • Specialized
1 9.6

To show a general idea by giving a clear example

focuses on giving an example to support an argument rather than representing an idea

Idioms

666 1.5

To give an example that shows what you mean

How Strongly

to demonstrate
579 3.0
to illustrate
301 3.5
to cite
421 3.6
to instance
1 5.4
to mention
1.0

Surface Forms

instance infinitive
instanced past
instanced past participle
instancing present participle
instances third person singular

Etymology

Instance (as a verb) comes from the idea of bringing a 'case' forward, from an old root meaning 'to stand', like stand. So to instance something is to give a 'case' or 'example' to support your point.