for-instance: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Neutral to semi-formal; common in both spoken and written English.
Quick answer
What does “for-instance” mean?
Used to introduce a specific example or case that illustrates a general statement.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Used to introduce a specific example or case that illustrates a general statement.
A phrase functioning as an adverbial to signal an illustrative example within discourse; often interchangeable with 'for example' (e.g.) but may carry slightly more conversational nuance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling of surrounding words may follow regional conventions (e.g., 'colour/color').
Connotations
Slightly more common in British English in formal writing, where 'e.g.' or 'for example' might be preferred in some American academic contexts, but the difference is minimal.
Frequency
Very high frequency in both varieties. Possibly a marginally higher frequency in spoken British English.
Grammar
How to Use “for-instance” in a Sentence
[General statement]. For instance, [specific example].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “for-instance” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- He gave several reasons, for instance the cost and the timing.
- Many fruits are rich in vitamin C, for instance oranges and kiwis.
American English
- She enjoys outdoor activities, for instance hiking and kayaking.
- The software has many features, for instance automatic backup.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in reports and presentations to clarify points with concrete cases.
Academic
Common in essays and articles to introduce supporting evidence.
Everyday
Frequent in conversation when giving examples.
Technical
Used in manuals or explanations to specify cases.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “for-instance”
- Writing it as one word 'forinstance'.
- Using a comma after it when it starts a sentence (correct: 'For instance, we could go...').
- Overusing it in formal writing where 'e.g.' or other phrases might vary style.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are virtually interchangeable in meaning and function. 'For example' is slightly more common in all registers, but 'for instance' is perfectly standard.
Yes, when it is used to introduce an example at the beginning of a clause, it is typically followed by a comma. When it appears in the middle of a sentence, it is often set off by commas on both sides.
Yes, it can. Example: 'Many factors affect climate. For instance, ocean currents play a major role.'
The phrase itself can be used as a hyphenated noun: 'His latest error was a classic for-instance of poor planning.' However, this usage is less common than the adverbial phrase.
Used to introduce a specific example or case that illustrates a general statement.
For-instance is usually neutral to semi-formal; common in both spoken and written english. in register.
For-instance: in British English it is pronounced /fɔːr ˈɪnstəns/, and in American English it is pronounced /fɔːr ˈɪnstəns/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Set a precedent (related conceptually)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a courtroom: the lawyer presents the 'instance' (the case) 'for' the jury to consider as an example.
Conceptual Metaphor
EXAMPLES ARE SPECIMENS (presented for inspection).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is NOT a correct use of 'for instance'?