el ejemplo

Definition & meaning

The word "ejemplo" primarily refers to an instance or a case used to illustrate, clarify, or prove a general rule or statement. It is the Spanish equivalent of the English word "example."

There are two main nuances to its meaning:

1. An illustration: A specific fact or case used to explain a concept or demonstrate a pattern. For instance, in the common phrase "por ejemplo" (for example), it introduces a clarifying point.
2. A moral model: A person’s behavior or an action that is considered worthy of imitation or, conversely, serves as a warning. To "dar ejemplo" means to set a standard of behavior for others to follow.

Grammar & Word origin

"Ejemplo" is a masculine noun. Its plural form is "ejemplos."

The word originates from the Latin term "exemplum," which refers to a "sample," "pattern," or "original." The Latin root is derived from the verb "eximere," which means "to take out" or "to remove." This implies that an example is something "taken out" from a larger group to represent the whole. This etymological path is the same one that led to the English word "example" and the French "exemple."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

• muestra↗: A sample or a small part that represents a whole.
• modelo↗: A pattern or person to be imitated.
• caso↗: A specific occurrence or instance.
• espécimen↗: An individual animal, plant, or object used as an example of its species or type.
• paradigma↗: A typical example or pattern of something; a model.

Antonyms:

• excepción↗: A person or thing that is excluded from a general statement or does not follow a rule.
• contraejemplo↗: An exception to a proposed general rule or a specific case that proves a statement false.
• anomalía↗: Something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.