Instances: meaning, definitions and examples

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instances

[ˈɪnstənsɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

data processing

Instances refer to individual occurrences or examples of data or objects within a system or program.

Synonyms

case, example, occurrence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
occurrence	Use 'occurrence' to describe something that happens or takes place, often in a more general or neutral context. The occurrence of natural disasters has increased in recent years. This event was a rare occurrence in our town.
example	Use 'example' when illustrating or clarifying a point by referring to a particular instance that typifies a rule or pattern. This is an excellent example of teamwork. Could you give me an example of how to solve this problem?
case	Use 'case' when talking about a specific situation, instance, or example, often in a legal or formal context. In this case, we need more evidence to proceed. The detective presented a compelling case to the jury.

Word

Description / Examples

occurrence

Use 'occurrence' to describe something that happens or takes place, often in a more general or neutral context.

The occurrence of natural disasters has increased in recent years.
This event was a rare occurrence in our town.

example

Use 'example' when illustrating or clarifying a point by referring to a particular instance that typifies a rule or pattern.

This is an excellent example of teamwork.
Could you give me an example of how to solve this problem?

case

Use 'case' when talking about a specific situation, instance, or example, often in a legal or formal context.

In this case, we need more evidence to proceed.
The detective presented a compelling case to the jury.

Examples of usage

Each instance of the class contains specific data.
The software allows you to create multiple instances of the same object.
In computer programming, an instance is an instantiation of a class.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

Instances can also refer to specific cases or examples of something in a broader context.

Synonyms

case, example, illustration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
instances	Use 'instances' when referring to multiple occurrences or cases, especially when you are talking about specific examples from a broader category. There were several instances of miscommunication that led to the problem. In many instances, the solution is quite simple.
example	Use 'example' when demonstrating or illustrating a general truth, rule, or fact with a specific case or instance. This is a good example of how teamwork can lead to success. Can you provide an example to clarify your point?
case	Use 'case' when discussing a particular situation or example of something happening, often used in legal, medical, or hypothetical scenarios. In this case, we need to follow the protocol strictly. There was a case of food poisoning at the restaurant.
illustration	Use 'illustration' when you want to visually or figuratively explain or clarify a point, often by using diagrams, stories, or anecdotes. The professor used a diagram as an illustration of the process. Her story serves as an illustration of the challenges many people face.

Examples of usage

This case is an instance of the problem we are trying to solve.
Her behavior in this situation is a good instance of her character.
Let me provide you with an instance to illustrate my point.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'instantia', which means 'standing in place' or 'presence'.
Originally, it had a meaning connected to urgency or immediacy, emphasizing the current moment's importance.

Science

In computer science, 'instances' refer to specific objects created from a class in programming, like how a cake recipe can create multiple cakes.
In statistics, an 'instance' can mean a single example used in data analysis to draw broader conclusions.

Literature

'Instances' often show up in storytelling as specific examples that illustrate a larger theme or message.
Authors may use instances to create relevance and realism by referring to real-life situations or commonly experienced events.

Cultural References

In everyday conversation, mentioning various 'instances' of kindness or bravery can inspire others to act similarly, highlighting human values.
Instances of famous quotes often serve as powerful reminders, like 'instances of courage' that motivate people facing challenges.

Psychology

Cognitive behavioral therapy often involves discussing instances of behavior to help individuals understand patterns and triggers.
In psychology, recalling instances of past experiences helps in forming memories and building one’s identity.

Translations

Translations of the word "instances" in other languages:

🇵🇹 instâncias

🇮🇳 घटनाएं

🇩🇪 Instanzen

🇮🇩 contoh

🇺🇦 випадки

🇵🇱 przypadki

🇯🇵 インスタンス

🇫🇷 instances

🇪🇸 instancias

🇹🇷 örnekler

🇰🇷 사례

🇸🇦 حالات

🇨🇿 případy

🇸🇰 prípady

🇨🇳 实例

🇸🇮 primeri

🇮🇸 tilvik

🇰🇿 жағдайлар

🇬🇪 შემთხვევები

🇦🇿 hallar

🇲🇽 instancias

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,869, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1866 cotton
1867 northern
1868 sister
1869 instances
1870 observation
1871 channel
1872 mile
...