Example vs. Description — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 17, 2024
Example demonstrates a specific instance of something, while description provides detailed information about something. Both clarify concepts but in different ways.
Difference Between Example and Description
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An example illustrates a specific case or instance of a concept, making abstract ideas more concrete and understandable. For instance, "A dog" as an example helps clarify what a pet might be. In contrast, a description gives a detailed account or explanation of something, often focusing on characteristics and qualities. Describing "a dog" involves detailing its appearance, behavior, and other attributes.
Examples are typically used to provide clarity through specific instances, offering a straightforward way to understand a broader concept. When someone says, "An apple is a fruit," this example categorizes apples within the larger group of fruits. Descriptions, however, convey a richer picture by elaborating on various aspects. Describing an apple might involve its color, taste, texture, and nutritional value.
In education, examples are often employed to illustrate rules or theories in a practical context, making them easier to grasp. A math teacher might give an example of a solved equation to show the application of a formula. On the other hand, descriptions help in providing thorough explanations, such as describing the steps to solve an equation, which can aid in deeper understanding.
Examples are concise and to the point, aiming to highlight a single instance or idea without additional detail. A historical event can be highlighted by a single example like the fall of the Berlin Wall. Descriptions, however, are more expansive and detailed, painting a full picture. Describing the fall of the Berlin Wall would involve the political climate, key events, and its impact on society.
Comparison Chart
Purpose
Illustrate a specific instance
Provide detailed information
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Clarity
Direct and straightforward
Elaborate and comprehensive
Usage
Highlighting a single idea
Explaining multiple attributes
Detail Level
Minimal detail
Rich in detail
Educational Use
Demonstrates rules or concepts
Explains processes or characteristics
Compare with Definitions
Example
A model or pattern to follow.
The teacher gave an example to solve the math problem.
Description
An account detailing sensory details.
Her description of the meal made my mouth water.
Example
A representative sample.
She set a good example by being kind to everyone.
Description
An explanation of characteristics or features.
The job listing had a comprehensive job description.
Example
A specific instance illustrating a concept.
A tornado is an example of extreme weather.
Description
A detailed account of something.
The book includes a vivid description of the scenery.
Example
An instance used for comparison.
As an example, consider the case of...
Description
A portrayal in words.
The witness gave a description of the suspect.
Example
A thing characteristic of its kind or illustrating a general rule
Advertising provides a good example of an industry where dreams have faded
Description
A representation in words.
The tour guide's description of the history was fascinating.
Example
A person or thing regarded in terms of their fitness to be imitated
It is important that parents should set an example
He followed his brother's example and deserted his family
Description
Description is the pattern of narrative development that aims to make vivid a place, object, character, or group. Description is one of four rhetorical modes (also known as modes of discourse), along with exposition, argumentation, and narration.
Example
Be illustrated or exemplified
The extent of Allied naval support is exampled by the navigational specialists provided
Description
A spoken or written account of a person, object, or event
People who had seen him were able to give a description
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.
Description
A type or class of people or things
It is laughably easy to buy drugs of all descriptions
Example
One serving as a pattern of a specific kind
Set a good example by arriving on time.
Description
The act, process, or technique of describing.
Example
A similar case that constitutes a model or precedent
A unique episode, without example in maritime history.
Description
A statement or an account describing something
Published a description of the journey.
Gave a vivid description of the game.
Example
A punishment given as a warning or deterrent
Saw the boy's suspension as an example to all students considering breaking the rules.
Description
A pictorial representation
Monet's ethereal descriptions of haystacks and water lilies.
Example
One that has been given such a punishment
Made an example of the offender.
Description
A kind or sort
Cars of every size and description.
Example
A problem or exercise used to illustrate a principle or method.
Description
A sketch or account of anything in words; a portraiture or representation in language; an enumeration of the essential qualities of a thing or species.
Give a verbal description of the events
A realistic description
Example
Something that is representative of all such things in a group.
Description
The act of describing; a delineation by marks or signs.
Example
Something that serves to illustrate or explain a rule.
Description
A set of characteristics by which someone or something can be recognized.
The zoo had no lions, tigers, or cats of any description.
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.
Description
(taxonomy) A scientific documentation of a taxon for the purpose of introducing it to science.
The type description of the fungus was written by a botanist.
Example
A person punished as a warning to others.
Description
(linguistics) The act or practice of recording and describing actual language usage in a given speech community, as opposed to prescription, i.e. laying down norms of language usage.
Example
A parallel or closely similar case, especially when serving as a precedent or model.
Description
(linguistics) A descriptive linguistic survey.
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.
Description
The act of describing; a delineation by marks or signs.
Example
To be illustrated or exemplified (by). en
Description
A sketch or account of anything in words; a portraiture or representation in language; an enumeration of the essential qualities of a thing or species.
Milton has descriptions of morning.
Example
One or a portion taken to show the character or quality of the whole; a sample; a specimen.
Description
A class to which a certain representation is applicable; kind; sort.
A difference . . . between them and another description of public creditors.
The plates were all of the meanest description.
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.
Description
A statement that represents something in words
Example
That which resembles or corresponds with something else; a precedent; a model.
Such temperate order in so fierce a causeDoth want example.
Description
The act of describing something
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.
Description
Sort or variety;
Every description of book was there
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
An occurrence demonstrating a rule.
This is an example of Newton's laws in action.
Common Curiosities
When should I use an example?
Use an example to clarify or illustrate a particular point or concept.
How is a description different from an example?
A description provides detailed information about something, whereas an example demonstrates a specific case of something.
What is an example?
An example is a specific instance used to illustrate a concept or principle.
How do examples aid in learning?
Examples make abstract concepts concrete, helping learners understand and apply ideas.
Can an example be part of a description?
Yes, an example can be included within a description to help clarify a point.
What makes a good example?
A good example is clear, relevant, and directly illustrates the concept being explained.
What constitutes a good description?
A good description is thorough, detailed, and provides a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
Are descriptions always lengthy?
No, descriptions can vary in length but generally include more detail than examples.
What role do descriptions play in education?
Descriptions provide in-depth explanations, enhancing comprehension of complex subjects.
When is a description more appropriate?
A description is more appropriate when you need to provide detailed information about an object, process, or concept.
Are examples and descriptions used together?
Often, examples are used within descriptions to provide clarity and detail.
Do examples need explanations?
Sometimes, examples are self-explanatory, but they can also benefit from brief explanations.
Can a single sentence be a description?
Yes, a description can be brief, but it typically provides more detail than an example.
What is the main function of a description?
The main function of a description is to provide a detailed account that helps to fully understand the subject.
How are examples used in writing?
Examples are used to illustrate points, support arguments, and clarify concepts.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
