Cool MateExample vs Instance
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Example
Top 1,000 (very common)A1noun
Instance
Top 2,000 (common)B2noun
Most common: Example
| Example | Instance | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ɪɡˈzɑːmpl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪɡˈzæmpl/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈɪnstəns/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈɪnstəns/"]/ |
| Meaning | A sample or model of something to show how it works. | A specific example or case of something. |
| Example | Please follow this example to complete your assignment. | In this instance, we will need to apply a different approach. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | A1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Collocations | characteristic, classic, prime, give somebody, offer, provide (somebody with), demonstrate something, highlight something, illustrate something, for example, in an/the example, example of, characteristic, classic, prime, give somebody, offer, provide (somebody with), demonstrate something, highlight something, illustrate something, for example, in an/the example, example of, good, great, inspiring, set, show, follow, by example, example to, make an example of somebody, good, great, inspiring, set, show, follow, by example, example to, make an example of somebody | countless, innumerable, many, give, provide, represent, occur, show something, for instance, in… instance, instance of, in the first instance |
| Antonyms | counterexample, exception | whole, entirety, totality |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'exemplary', which means perfect or model., Using 'example' in plural without 'examples' when talking about multiple cases., Mispronouncing it as 'egg-zample' instead of 'ig-zample'. | Confusing with 'instant' — they have different meanings., Using 'instances' incorrectly in plural form without examples., Mixing it up with 'instance of' instead of just 'instance.' |
| Usage notes | Use 'example' when illustrating a point or providing a representation. It's suitable in most contexts, but avoid in very casual situations where simpler words may be more appropriate. | Use 'instance' in both spoken and written English to refer to particular examples. It's suitable for formal and informal contexts but avoid it in casual conversations or slang. |
Frequently asked questions: Example vs Instance
What's the difference between Example and Instance?
Example: A sample or model of something to show how it works. Instance: A specific example or case of something.
Which is more common: Example and Instance?
Example is the most common in everyday English.
Are Example and Instance the same CEFR level?
Example: A1, Instance: B2 on the CEFR scale.
Can I use Example and Instance interchangeably?
Not always. Example and Instance are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.