adverb

for instance

fer IN-stunss

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For instance (adverb) means used to introduce an example that illustrates the point just made. Example: “Some fruits are surprisingly acidic — pineapple, for instance.”

adverb

Used to introduce an example that illustrates the point just made.

"Some fruits are surprisingly acidic — pineapple, for instance."

"For instance, you could take the coast road instead of the motorway."

How to use for instance

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUsed before you give an example.

When to use it

Interchangeable with for example in almost every context, and slightly more conversational. Set off with commas, and note that e.g. is the written abbreviation of for example, not of for instance.

Memory tip

Use for instance to introduce a whole clause or a sample item; use such as only before a noun phrase, never before a full sentence.

Easily confused with

for example e.g. → i.e. → such as →

Common pairings

for instance, if take, for instance consider, for instance

Vocabulary Flow

Build your vocabulary from words like for instance.

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “for instance” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Some fruits are surprisingly acidic — pineapple, _____.

Synonyms

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for example e.g. such as by way of illustration say

Related words

say state including tell talk example vote speak

Rhymes for for instance

lance dance Nance seance chance nuance trance stance glance balance advance finance

See all rhymes for for instance →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between for instance and for example?

There is no difference in meaning, and either can introduce one or several examples. For example is marginally more common in formal writing and has the abbreviation e.g.; for instance sounds a little more spoken.

What is the difference between e.g. and i.e.?

E.g. is short for the Latin exempli gratia and introduces examples, so it matches for instance. I.e. is short for id est and introduces a restatement or clarification, meaning that is. "Citrus fruit, e.g. lemons" versus "citrus fruit, i.e. fruit from the genus Citrus".

What is the meaning of for instance?

"for instance" (adverb) means used to introduce an example that illustrates the point just made.

What is another word for for instance?

Other words for "for instance" include for example, e.g., such as, by way of illustration, say.

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say state including tell talk example vote speak