sample 🔊
Meaning of sample
A small part or quantity intended to show what the whole is like.
Key Difference
While 'sample' refers to a representative part of a larger whole, its synonyms may emphasize different aspects like demonstration, model, or specimen.
Example of sample
- The chef offered a sample of the new dessert to the customers.
- Scientists collected a water sample from the river to test for pollutants.
Synonyms
specimen 🔊
Meaning of specimen
An individual example or piece taken as representative of a class or whole.
Key Difference
A 'specimen' often implies a carefully selected or preserved example, especially in scientific contexts, whereas 'sample' is more general.
Example of specimen
- The museum displayed a rare specimen of a dinosaur fossil.
- The lab technician analyzed the blood specimen for abnormalities.
example 🔊
Meaning of example
A thing characteristic of its kind or illustrating a general rule.
Key Difference
An 'example' is used to illustrate a point or rule, while a 'sample' is a portion taken for analysis or testing.
Example of example
- She set a good example by arriving on time and prepared.
- This painting is a perfect example of Renaissance art.
model 🔊
Meaning of model
A simplified representation of a system or phenomenon to assist calculations and predictions.
Key Difference
A 'model' is a theoretical or physical representation, while a 'sample' is an actual part taken from something.
Example of model
- The architect built a scale model of the proposed building.
- Economists use mathematical models to predict market trends.
instance 🔊
Meaning of instance
An example or single occurrence of something.
Key Difference
An 'instance' refers to a particular case or occurrence, whereas a 'sample' is a portion representing a larger entity.
Example of instance
- This is just one instance of his many acts of kindness.
- In this instance, the court ruled in favor of the defendant.
illustration 🔊
Meaning of illustration
A picture or diagram that helps make something clear or attractive.
Key Difference
An 'illustration' visually explains or decorates, while a 'sample' is a tangible piece representing a whole.
Example of illustration
- The textbook included an illustration of the human digestive system.
- Her presentation was enhanced by colorful illustrations.
exemplar 🔊
Meaning of exemplar
A typical or good example of something.
Key Difference
An 'exemplar' is an ideal or perfect example, while a 'sample' is neutral and representative.
Example of exemplar
- The ancient manuscript is an exemplar of medieval calligraphy.
- He is considered an exemplar of leadership in the community.
prototype 🔊
Meaning of prototype
A first or preliminary version of a device or vehicle from which other forms are developed.
Key Difference
A 'prototype' is an early model for testing, while a 'sample' is a part taken from an existing whole.
Example of prototype
- The engineer tested the prototype of the new electric car.
- This prototype will help identify any design flaws before production.
swatch 🔊
Meaning of swatch
A small sample of fabric intended to demonstrate the look of a larger piece.
Key Difference
A 'swatch' is specifically a fabric sample, whereas 'sample' is more broadly applicable.
Example of swatch
- She chose a paint color based on a swatch from the catalog.
- The designer sent swatches of the new fabric collection to clients.
cross-section 🔊
Meaning of cross-section
A representative sample of a group or whole.
Key Difference
A 'cross-section' implies diversity within the sample, while 'sample' is more general.
Example of cross-section
- The survey included a cross-section of the population to ensure accuracy.
- The study examined a cross-section of income levels in urban areas.
Conclusion
- The word 'sample' is versatile, used to describe a representative part of a whole in various contexts.
- Use 'specimen' when referring to scientific or carefully selected examples, such as in biology or medicine.
- 'Example' is best for illustrating general rules or principles, often in educational or explanatory contexts.
- A 'model' should be used when referring to theoretical or scaled-down representations, common in engineering or economics.
- 'Instance' works well when highlighting specific occurrences or cases, particularly in legal or anecdotal discussions.
- 'Illustration' is ideal for visual explanations or decorative examples, often seen in books or presentations.
- Choose 'exemplar' when referring to an ideal or perfect example, often used in discussions of quality or morality.
- Use 'prototype' for early versions of products or designs, common in technology and manufacturing.
- 'Swatch' is specific to fabric or color samples, useful in design and fashion industries.
- 'Cross-section' is appropriate when emphasizing diversity within a sample, often in sociological or statistical studies.