Can You Use Example As A Verb

The question “Can You Use Example As A Verb” often pops up in discussions about language and its ever-evolving nature. While the traditional understanding of “example” positions it firmly as a noun, the landscape of English is fluid, and sometimes, what seems unusual can actually gain traction and acceptance. Let’s delve into this intriguing linguistic puzzle.

The Nuances of Exemplifying Language

At its core, the word “example” refers to a thing that is representative of its kind or serves as an illustration. For instance, you might say, “This apple is a good example of a Honeycrisp.” Here, “example” functions as a noun. However, language is not static. The desire to express actions concisely and vividly can lead to new verb formations or the repurposing of existing words. The idea of “to example” as a verb implies the act of providing an example or illustrating something. Think about situations where someone might say, “Let me example this point for you.” This usage, while not yet universally codified in dictionaries as a primary verb form, is certainly understandable and increasingly encountered in informal contexts. Understanding these evolving linguistic patterns is crucial for clear and effective communication. Here are some ways this concept can be viewed:

• Existing Verb Forms While “example” isn’t a standard verb, we have similar verbs like “illustrate,” “demonstrate,” or “show.” “To example” could be seen as a more direct and perhaps less formal synonym for these.
• Informal Usage In casual conversation or writing, people often create verbs from nouns. This phenomenon, known as nominal conversion or “verbification,” is a natural part of language development.
• Potential for Ambiguity The main challenge with using “example” as a verb is potential confusion. If a reader isn’t familiar with this emerging usage, they might misinterpret the intended meaning, defaulting to the noun form.

Consider this table illustrating the noun and potential verb usages: