Example vs. Exemplar: What's the Difference?
By Aimie Carlson & Janet White || Updated on May 20, 2024
An example is a specific instance illustrating a general rule, while an exemplar is an ideal model or a perfect instance representing the highest standard.
Key Differences
An example is often used to clarify or explain a concept by providing a specific instance. It helps to make abstract ideas more concrete. On the other hand, an exemplar is not just any instance but a prime model, representing the best possible version of something.
In teaching, an example can be any ordinary instance that helps explain a concept to students. Whereas, an exemplar is used to show students the highest standard they should aim for. For instance, a teacher might give a simple math problem as an example, but provide a perfectly solved complex problem as an exemplar.
In writing, examples are commonly used to support arguments and illustrate points. They provide evidence and context. Conversely, an exemplar in writing would be a piece of text that is used as a benchmark of excellent writing, often highlighting superior style and technique.
In everyday life, examples can be drawn from ordinary experiences to explain common phenomena. Exemplar experiences, however, are those that are particularly noteworthy and serve as a model of excellence, such as a heroic act or a breakthrough achievement.
Examples are necessary for understanding and applying concepts in various situations. Exemplars, however, set the standard and inspire others to achieve a higher level of performance.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A specific instance illustrating a general rule
An ideal model representing the highest standard
Usage in Teaching
Used to explain a concept
Used to show the highest standard to aim for
Role in Writing
Supports arguments and illustrates points
Serves as a benchmark of excellent writing
Everyday Context
Drawn from ordinary experiences
Particularly noteworthy and model experiences
Purpose
Helps in understanding and applying concepts
Sets the standard and inspires higher performance
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Example and Exemplar Definitions
Example
Something representative of a larger group.
This painting is an example of modern art.
Exemplar
Something that is considered a model of excellence.
This piece of art is an exemplar of the Renaissance style.
Example
A specific instance used to illustrate a concept.
The teacher gave an example to explain the math problem.
Exemplar
An ideal instance representing the best of its kind.
The athlete is an exemplar of sportsmanship.
Example
A case or occurrence demonstrating something.
This event is an example of climate change effects.
Exemplar
A model or pattern to be imitated or followed.
This essay is an exemplar of excellent writing.
Example
One that is representative of a group as a whole
The squirrel, an example of a rodent.
Introduced each new word with examples of its use.
Exemplar
A perfect example, often used as a standard.
His conduct was an exemplar of good manners.
Example
One serving as a pattern of a specific kind
Set a good example by arriving on time.
Exemplar
One that is worthy of imitation; a perfect example or model.
Example
A similar case that constitutes a model or precedent
A unique episode, without example in maritime history.
Exemplar
One that is typical or representative; an example
An exemplar of poor research.
Example
A punishment given as a warning or deterrent
Saw the boy's suspension as an example to all students considering breaking the rules.
Exemplar
A copy, as of a book.
Example
One that has been given such a punishment
Made an example of the offender.
Exemplar
Something fit to be imitated; an ideal, a model.
Example
A problem or exercise used to illustrate a principle or method.
Exemplar
A role model.
Example
Something that is representative of all such things in a group.
Exemplar
Something typical or representative of a class; an example that typifies.
Example
Something that serves to illustrate or explain a rule.
Exemplar
A pattern after which others should be made; an archetype.
Example
Something that serves as a pattern of behaviour to be imitated (a good example) or not to be imitated (a bad example).
Nelson Mandela was an example for many to follow.
Exemplar
A well known usage of a scientific theory.
Example
A person punished as a warning to others.
Exemplar
A handwritten manuscript used by a scribe to make a handwritten copy; the original copy of what gets multiply reproduced in a copy machine.
Example
A parallel or closely similar case, especially when serving as a precedent or model.
Exemplar
A copy of a book or piece of writing.
Example
An instance (as a problem to be solved) serving to illustrate the rule or precept or to act as an exercise in the application of the rule.
Exemplar
(obsolete) Exemplary.
Example
To be illustrated or exemplified (by). en
Exemplar
A model, original, or pattern, to be copied or imitated; a specimen; sometimes; an ideal model or type, as that which an artist conceives.
Such grand exemplar as make their own abilities the sole measure of what is fit or unfit.
Example
One or a portion taken to show the character or quality of the whole; a sample; a specimen.
Exemplar
A copy of a book or writing.
Example
That which is to be followed or imitated as a model; a pattern or copy.
For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
I gave, thou sayest, the example; I led the way.
Exemplar
Exemplary.
The exemplar piety of the father of a family.
Example
That which resembles or corresponds with something else; a precedent; a model.
Such temperate order in so fierce a causeDoth want example.
Exemplar
Something to be imitated;
An exemplar of success
A model of clarity
He is the very model of a modern major general
Example
That which is to be avoided; one selected for punishment and to serve as a warning; a warning.
Hang him; he'll be made an example.
Now these things were our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
Exemplar
A person or thing serving as a typical example or excellent model.
She is an exemplar of dedication and hard work.
Example
An instance serving for illustration of a rule or precept, especially a problem to be solved, or a case to be determined, as an exercise in the application of the rules of any study or branch of science; as, in trigonometry and grammar, the principles and rules are illustrated by examples.
Example
To set an example for; to give a precedent for; to exemplify; to give an instance of; to instance.
Burke devoted himself to this duty with a fervid assiduity that has not often been exampled, and has never been surpassed.
Example
An item of information that is representative of a type;
This patient provides a typical example of the syndrome
There is an example on page 10
Example
A representative form or pattern;
I profited from his example
Example
Something to be imitated;
An exemplar of success
A model of clarity
He is the very model of a modern major general
Example
Punishment intended as a warning to others;
They decided to make an example of him
Example
An occurrence of something;
It was a case of bad judgment
Another instance occurred yesterday
But there is always the famous example of the Smiths
Example
A task performed or problem solved in order to develop skill or understanding;
You must work the examples at the end of each chapter in the textbook
Example
A pattern or model for imitation.
She set a good example for her younger siblings.
Example
A particular instance of something.
For example, the weather today is unusually warm.
FAQs
What is an exemplar?
An exemplar is an ideal model representing the highest standard. e.g., The artist's work is an exemplar of modern sculpture.
Can an example become an exemplar?
Yes, if an example is of exceptionally high quality, it can be considered an exemplar. e.g., Her project was so outstanding it became an exemplar for the class.
Do exemplars have to be perfect?
Exemplars are considered near-perfect models, representing the best possible version. e.g., His exemplary behavior made him an exemplar in the community.
What is an example?
An example is a specific instance used to illustrate or explain a concept. e.g., The teacher used an example to clarify the math concept.
Can you use an example in a formal presentation?
Yes, examples are often used to support points and make ideas clearer in presentations. e.g., The speaker used several examples to illustrate his arguments.
How do examples help in learning?
Examples make abstract concepts more concrete and understandable. e.g., The example helped the students grasp the complex theory.
Why are exemplars important in education?
Exemplars set high standards and inspire students to achieve excellence. e.g., The exemplar essays helped students understand what excellent writing looks like.
What is a common synonym for exemplar?
A common synonym for exemplar is "model." e.g., She is a model of academic excellence.
How do examples differ from exemplars in teaching?
Examples are used to explain concepts, while exemplars show the highest standard to aim for. e.g., The teacher used a simple problem as an example but displayed a perfect solution as an exemplar.
Can a story be an exemplar?
Yes, a story that perfectly illustrates a concept can be an exemplar. e.g., The novel is an exemplar of literary brilliance.
Can historical figures be exemplars?
Yes, historical figures can be exemplars if they embody high standards. e.g., Nelson Mandela is an exemplar of leadership and resilience.
What makes an example effective?
An effective example is relevant and clearly illustrates the concept. e.g., The example was effective in explaining the scientific principle.
How are exemplars chosen?
Exemplars are chosen based on their superior quality and ability to set a high standard. e.g., The award-winning project was chosen as an exemplar.
Are exemplars used in professional settings?
Yes, exemplars are used to set benchmarks and standards in professional environments. e.g., The report was considered an exemplar of thorough research.
Is an exemplar always positive?
Generally, exemplars are positive, representing the best standard. e.g., The employee’s dedication is an exemplar for others.
How do you identify an exemplar?
An exemplar is identified by its outstanding quality and model characteristics. e.g., The manager identified the report as an exemplar of thorough analysis.
Are examples always ordinary instances?
Yes, examples are typically ordinary instances used for clarification. e.g., The example provided was simple and easy to understand.
Do examples need context?
Yes, providing context makes examples more understandable. e.g., The teacher provided context before giving the example.
What is the role of examples in communication?
Examples clarify and provide evidence for the speaker’s points. e.g., He used an example to make his argument more convincing.
Can a bad example still be an exemplar?
No, exemplars represent the highest standards, so a bad example cannot be an exemplar. e.g., A flawed project cannot be an exemplar.
About Author
Written by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
