When it comes to language, choosing the right words makes all the difference in how you come across to others. Whether that be while doing business, writing, or having a casual conversation, using words and phrases that enhance your communication skills are beneficial in work and life.
Research shows that having good communication skills is key to a successful career because it allows you to convey your ideas clearly in order to achieve your goals. They’re also beneficial for boosting professionalism, productivity, and your overall communication habits. Studies also show that good communication is crucial in fields like law and healthcare, since it’s essential to communicate with colleagues, clients, patients, and providers.
One common phrase that’s widely used in daily conversation is “for example.” Using this phrase allows you to elaborate further on a certain topic or idea you’re sharing. Though sometimes, it’s easy to get tripped on its nuances and when it’s best to use it.
By brushing up your language skills in this area, you’ll feel more self-assured in communicating your ideas and receive positive feedback on what you share. If you want to learn about other ways you can use “for example,” check out these 11 alternatives below.
1. Namely
When used in a sentence, “namely” is best used when introducing a specific point or example.
Namely, it was the day she received the necessary license for her business.
2. Such as
Widely used instead of “for example,” “such as” can be applied when highlighting a specific point after listing nouns or other phrases.
The ocean is home to a variety of wildlife such as fish, seahorses, and stingrays.
3. Additionally
“Additionally” can be used when you want to add to a specific point that ties into something you’ve previously referenced.
It is imperative that employees show up to work on time. Additionally, they must abide by all rules and policies outlined in the company handbook.
4. As illustrated
Using “as illustrated” is best reserved for introducing facts or details.
As illustrated by the book’s preface, this story is about courage and bravery.
5. To clarify
“To clarify” is best used for when you want to follow up and explain a previous idea you’ve made, whether it’s already been made clear to your audience or not.
To clarify, Jim must send over the business proposal to Larry before setting up a meeting.
6. Specifically
Using “specifically” can be applied when you’re honing in on a point in its given context.
When she went to the store, she wasn’t able to get all the items she needed. Specifically, the store was out of juice, milk, apples, and lettuce.
7. Case in point
“Case in point” is good to use when you want to be definitive in a response or explanation that directly follows an example you’ve already made.
Case in point, we need to hit our KPI of $30,000 in sales per quarter in order to make a profit.
8. To demonstrate
“To demonstrate” can be used when outlining an example, whether literally or figuratively, and is best to use for a presentation.
We need to make sure that the house we build is perfect for our family of 4. To demonstrate, it needs to follow this blueprint, and have four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
9. For instance
“For instance” is ideal when introducing and elaborating on a certain topic.
For instance, when working on a project like this, you will need to have a working device and a calculator in order to complete it.
10. To give you an idea
“To give you an idea” makes sense when giving a general overview in a situation without coming across as too direct.
We want to make sure you understand the instructions for this assignment. To give you an idea, you’ll need to get five leads and set up at least three meetings by the end of this week.
11. In other words
“In other words” can be used when you’re reframing an idea without repeating what you’ve already said.
In other words, Jim needs to book a round-trip flight by at least December 24 in order to make it on time for his family’s holiday festivities.
What to Keep in Mind
When using these terms, make sure to try it out in a sentence first. Identify if it fits the context and doesn’t sound like it’s forced in order to sound good. If you’re using one of these phrases when writing an email, business proposal, or while giving a presentation, practice swapping them out beforehand in the places where you’d say “for example,” so you can make sure it fits your specific scenario.
You can also do this by writing your sentences down and reading it aloud, and swapping it out with a different term if needed. And you want to make sure that you’re not using the same phrase repeatedly so don’t come across as repetitive and monotonous. Be sure to switch up the phrases you use from time-to-time as well, and also keep your situation and audience in mind.
If you’re having a casual conversation with a friend, using phrases such as “such as” and “specifically,” would work better in a casual context compared to if you’re using “case in point,” “to demonstrate,” or “namely,” which is used in a more formal setting. By understanding and knowing how to apply these variations, you’ll be well-prepared to articulate your ideas clearly and communicate with confidence.
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