If you write essays, emails, or reports, you probably use the phrase “for example” often. It’s simple and clear. But using it again and again can make your writing sound repetitive.
The good news? There are many other ways to say “for example” in sentences. Some are formal. Some are casual. Others are perfect for academic writing or IELTS essays.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- 40+ synonyms for “for example”
- When to use each phrase
- Formal vs informal
- Academic and professional alternatives
- Common mistakes to avoid
Let’s start with the basics.
What Does “For Example” Mean?
“For example” is a transition phrase. We use it to introduce an illustration, explanation, or proof.
It helps readers understand a general idea by giving a specific case.
Simple Examples:
- Many fruits are rich in vitamin C. For example, oranges and lemons contain high amounts.
- Some students prefer online learning. For example, those who work full-time benefit from flexible schedules.
Punctuation Rule
- Use a comma after “for example” when it starts a sentence.
- If it appears in the middle, place commas around it.
Correct:
Many animals, for example, dolphins, are highly intelligent.
Why You Should Avoid Repeating “For Example”
Using “for example” too often can:
- Make writing sound basic
- Reduce vocabulary variety
- Lower your IELTS lexical score
- Weaken professional tone
- Make essays repetitive
Strong writers use different expressions depending on context.
For instance (notice that variation ), academic writing requires more formal alternatives. Business emails need professional phrasing. Casual speaking allows more relaxed expressions.
That’s why learning alternatives is important.
40+ Other Ways to Say “For Example”
1. Formal Alternatives (Academic & Professional Writing)
These are best for essays, research papers, reports, and workplace communication.
1. For Instance
Almost identical to “for example.”
Example:
Many countries face inflation. For instance, food prices have increased significantly this year.
- Safe for academic and business writing.
2. To Illustrate
Use when clarifying a point.
Example:
Technology improves productivity. To illustrate, automated systems reduce manual errors.
- Strong academic tone.
3. To Demonstrate
Used when showing proof or evidence.
Example:
Exercise improves mental health. To demonstrate, several studies show reduced anxiety levels among active individuals.
- Excellent for research writing.
4. In Particular
Highlights a specific detail.
Example:
She enjoys many subjects. In particular, she excels in mathematics.
- Works in formal and semi-formal writing.
5. Namely
Used to specify something exactly.
Example:
Three students won scholarships, namely, John, Maria, and Ali.
- Common in academic English.
6. Specifically
Adds detailed clarification.
Example:
The company reduced expenses. Specifically, marketing costs were cut by 15%.
- Professional and academic tone.
7. Such As
Introduces examples within a sentence.
Example:
Outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling, improve physical health.
- Very common in essays.
8. Case in Point
Used when proving a statement.
Example:
Small changes can create big results. Case in point, reducing sugar intake improves energy levels.
- Strong persuasive writing tool.
9. To Clarify
Used when making something clearer.
Example:
He doesn’t enjoy travel. To clarify, he dislikes long-distance flights.
10. To Elucidate
A more advanced academic alternative.
Example:
The theory may seem complex. To elucidate, let’s examine a practical application.
- High-level vocabulary
11. As Proof
Used to provide supporting evidence.
Example:
Healthy habits improve productivity. As proof, companies with wellness programs report fewer sick days.
12. As Documented
Used when referring to research or evidence.
Example:
Climate patterns are changing, as documented by global temperature reports.
13. As Indicated By
Introduces supporting data.
Example:
Customer satisfaction is rising, as indicated by recent survey results.
These formal alternatives are ideal for:
- Academic essays
- IELTS Writing Task 2
- Business presentations
- Reports and proposals
2. Informal Alternatives
These expressions work well in conversations, blog posts, storytelling, and relaxed writing. Avoid using most of them in academic papers.
14. Imagine
Used to help readers visualize a situation.
Example:
You should start saving early. Imagine retiring at 40 with financial freedom.
- Best for speeches and motivational writing.
15. Let’s Say
Introduces a hypothetical scenario.
Example:
Let’s say you lose your job tomorrow. Would you have emergency savings?
- Works in both informal and semi-formal settings.
16. Suppose That
Similar to “let’s say,” but slightly more formal.
Example:
Suppose that your phone stops working during an emergency. What would you do?
17. Pretend That
Creates a fictional situation.
Example:
Pretend that you are the manager. How would you solve this problem?
- Casual tone.
18. Picture This
Engages the reader emotionally.
Example:
Picture this: you wake up to the sound of waves on a quiet beach.
- Great for storytelling and marketing.
19. Say That
Used for quick hypothetical examples.
Example:
Say that you arrive late to an interview. First impressions matter.
20. Think About It This Way
Invites a different perspective.
Example:
Raising prices may help profits. Think about it this way: higher prices often signal higher value.
21. Look at It From This Perspective
Encourages deeper reflection.
Example:
Minimum wage debates are complex. Look at it from this perspective: can workers survive on the current rate?
These phrases make writing more engaging. However, they are not ideal for academic essays.
3. Abbreviations for “For Example”
Abbreviations are common in formal and academic writing.
22. e.g.
Short for exempli gratia (Latin for “for example”).
Example:
You should eat more vegetables, e.g., spinach, carrots, and broccoli.
- Always lowercase
- Followed by a comma
- Used inside parentheses or mid-sentence
23. i.e.
Short for id est (Latin for “that is”).
Important: “i.e.” does NOT mean “for example.” It means “in other words.”
Example:
He works remotely, i.e., he does not go to the office.
4. Alternatives to Start a Sentence Instead of “For Example”
Sometimes you want to begin a sentence with an example. These sentence starters work well in essays and IELTS writing.
24. For Instance,
Example:
For instance, many young adults prefer freelancing over traditional jobs.
25. To Illustrate,
Example:
To illustrate, online businesses often have lower operating costs.
26. Consider This:
Example:
Consider this: one hour of daily exercise improves mood significantly.
- Good for persuasive writing.
27. Take the Case of
Example:
Take the case of Finland, where education reforms improved student outcomes.
- Academic-friendly.
28. One Example Is
Example:
One example is the rise of remote work after 2020.
- Simple and clear.
29. As an Example,
Example:
As an example, many startups begin with limited funding.
30. By Way of Example
Example:
By way of example, several companies reduced costs through automation.
- More formal tone.
5. One-Word Alternatives
These words do not always mean “for example,” but they can serve similar functions depending on context.
31. Indeed
Adds supporting evidence.
Example:
She is very talented. Indeed, she won three awards last year.
32. Additionally
Adds extra information.
Example:
The phone is affordable. Additionally, it has excellent battery life.
Not a direct synonym, but useful for supporting points.
33. Similarly
Introduces a comparable example.
Example:
Cats require attention. Similarly, dogs need daily interaction.
34. Consequently
Shows a result.
Example:
He didn’t prepare for the exam. Consequently, he failed.
This shows cause and effect, not an example.
35. Specifically
Introduces details.
Example:
She enjoys science. Specifically, she loves chemistry.
How to Say “For Example” Professionally
In business communication, tone matters. Repeating “for example” in reports or emails can sound basic. Instead, use polished alternatives.
Best Professional Options
- For instance
- To illustrate
- Specifically
- In particular
- As demonstrated by
- Case in point
- Such as
Example in a Business Email
Basic:
We improved efficiency. For example, we reduced production time.
Professional:
We improved efficiency. Specifically, we reduced production time by 18%.
Example in a Presentation
Basic:
Our strategy works. For example, sales increased last year.
Professional:
Our strategy delivers measurable results. As demonstrated by last year’s 25% sales growth, targeted marketing drives success.
Professional writing should be:
- Clear
- Direct
- Evidence-based
- Free from repetition
Avoid casual phrases like “Picture this” or “Pretend that” in formal settings.
How to Say “For Example” in Academic Writing
Academic writing requires precision and formality. Avoid conversational phrases.
Strong Academic Alternatives
- For instance
- To illustrate
- To demonstrate
- In particular
- Namely
- Specifically
- As indicated by
- As documented by
- Case in point
Academic Paragraph Example
Repetitive version:
Many countries invest in renewable energy. For example, Germany uses solar power. For example, Norway relies on hydroelectric energy.
Improved version:
Many countries invest in renewable energy. For instance, Germany has expanded its solar infrastructure. Similarly, Norway relies heavily on hydroelectric power.
Notice how variation improves flow.
“For Example” Synonyms for IELTS & Essay Writing
If you are preparing for IELTS, vocabulary range is important. Overusing “for example” may lower your lexical resource score.
High-Band Alternatives
- To illustrate
- For instance
- In particular
- Such as
- Specifically
- Case in point
Sample Band 7+ Paragraph
Many people believe technology improves education. To illustrate, online platforms allow students to access lectures from anywhere. In particular, recorded lessons enable flexible learning schedules.
This sounds more advanced than repeating “for example.”
Common Mistakes When Using “For Example” and Its Alternatives
Avoid these frequent errors:
Confusing e.g. and i.e.
Wrong:
He loves outdoor sports, i.e., football and tennis.
Correct:
He loves outdoor sports, e.g., football and tennis.
Missing Commas
Wrong:
For example students need sleep.
Correct:
For example, students need sleep.
Using Informal Phrases in Academic Writing
Avoid in essays:
- Picture this
- Pretend that
- Let’s say
Giving an Incomplete Example
Wrong:
Many animals are endangered. For example.
Always complete your example.
| Phrase | Formality Level | Best Used For | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| For instance | Formal | Essays, reports | For instance, prices increased. |
| To illustrate | Formal | Academic writing | To illustrate, data shows growth. |
| Specifically | Formal | Business writing | Specifically, costs fell by 10%. |
| Such as | Neutral | General writing | Activities such as swimming help. |
| Case in point | Semi-formal | Persuasive writing | Case in point, profits doubled. |
| e.g. | Formal | Academic writing | e.g., apples and oranges |
| Let’s say | Informal | Speaking | Let’s say you win. |
| Imagine | Informal | Storytelling | Imagine living abroad. |
FAQs about Other Ways to Say “For Example” in Sentences
What could I say instead of “for example”?
You can say:
- For instance
- To illustrate
- Such as
- Specifically
- Case in point
Choose based on context and tone.
What is a better word for example?
“For instance” is the closest direct synonym. In formal writing, “to illustrate” or “specifically” may sound stronger.
How do you say “for example” professionally?
Use:
- Specifically
- To illustrate
- As demonstrated by
- In particular
These sound polished and business-friendly.
How do you say “for example” in academic writing?
Use:
- For instance
- To demonstrate
- As indicated by
- Namely
- In particular
Avoid conversational phrases.
Can you start a sentence with “For example”?
Yes. Just add a comma after it.
Correct:
For example, many students prefer online classes.
What is the difference between e.g. and i.e.?
- e.g. = gives examples
- i.e. = explains or restates
They are not interchangeable.
Final Tips to Improve Your Writing Variety
- Avoid repeating the same transition word.
- Match your vocabulary to the situation.
- Use formal phrases in academic writing.
- Keep sentences short and clear.
- Build your own list of useful synonyms.
- Practice rewriting paragraphs with varied expressions.
Strong writing is not about complex words. It is about clarity, precision, and variety.
Final Thoughts
Learning other ways to say “for example” in sentences improves your writing instantly. Whether you are preparing for IELTS, writing an academic essay, or drafting a business email, choosing the right alternative makes your message stronger and more professional.
Start using them today — and your writing will sound more natural, advanced, and confident.