Instance Meaning: Examples & Usage

Meaning 1：specific case (instance)

instance 🔊

/ˈɪnstəns/

A specific example or case of something general.

Instance meaning illustrated with a teacher pointing to an example on a whiteboard

specific case 🔊

➕

/spəˈsɪfɪk keɪs/

An instance refers to a single occurrence or example of something, used to illustrate a general concept or rule.

📁 Category：School Education 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'instantia' (presence, example), from 'in-' (upon) + 'stare' (to stand).

💡 Mnemonic

In stance, think of a single example standing in for a whole category — one case stands.

📖 Example

Our teacher used a real-life instance of teamwork to explain the concept of cooperation. 🔊 Our teacher used a real-life instance of teamwork to explain the concept of cooperation.

🔗 Collocations

for instance – for example

in the first instance – firstly or at the initial stage

an instance of – an example of

🔄 Synonyms

example (n.) – A thing characteristic of its kind or illustrating a general rule.

case (n.) – An instance of a particular situation or set of circumstances.

illustration (n.) – An example serving to clarify or prove something.

🚫 Antonyms

generalization (n.) – A general statement or concept derived from specific instances but not itself an instance.

🌱 Derivatives

instances (n.) – plural of instance; multiple specific examples

instantial (adj.) – relating to or serving as an instance

instantiate (v.) – to represent or embody (an abstract concept) by a concrete instance

📖 Cultural Story

Originated from Latin 'instantia' meaning 'presence' or 'urgent plea.' In medieval logic, it evolved to mean a particular case proving a general rule.