Let me give you an example
Presentation and public speaking expression
Use this phrase to turn abstract ideas into clear, memorable stories that anyone can understand.
15초 만에
- A transition phrase used to clarify a general or abstract point.
- Works perfectly in both professional meetings and casual chats with friends.
- Helps the listener visualize your ideas through a specific, real-world story.
뜻
This phrase is a friendly way to transition from a general idea to a specific story or fact. It helps the listener visualize exactly what you are talking about by providing a concrete illustration.
주요 예문
3 / 6Explaining a technical issue to a client
The software is having some sync issues. Let me give you an example: sometimes files don't appear on your phone immediately.
The software is having some sync issues. Let me give you an example: sometimes files don't appear on your phone immediately.
Complaining to a friend about a roommate
He is so forgetful! Let me give you an example: he left the front door wide open yesterday.
He is so forgetful! Let me give you an example: he left the front door wide open yesterday.
A job interview
I work well under pressure. Let me give you an example of a time I handled a major deadline change.
I work well under pressure. Let me give you an example of a time I handled a major deadline change.
문화적 배경
The phrase reflects the Western preference for 'low-context' communication, where the speaker is responsible for making the message as clear as possible. It became a staple of public speaking and corporate culture in the mid-20th century as 'persuasive speaking' became a studied art form. Today, it is a universal tool for clarity across all English dialects.
The Power of the Pause
After you say 'Let me give you an example,' pause for one second. It makes people lean in and listen more closely to what comes next.
Don't Forget the Example!
It sounds obvious, but sometimes we use this as a filler phrase. Make sure you actually have a specific story ready before you say it!
15초 만에
- A transition phrase used to clarify a general or abstract point.
- Works perfectly in both professional meetings and casual chats with friends.
- Helps the listener visualize your ideas through a specific, real-world story.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as a bridge. You are walking your listener from a big, abstract concept to a real-world picture. It is like saying, "I know this sounds complicated, so let me show you how it works in real life." It makes your words feel more grounded and believable.
How To Use It
Use this phrase immediately after you make a point that might be hard to grasp. You should pause for a tiny second before saying it. This creates a bit of healthy suspense. Follow it up with a specific person, place, or event. It works best when your example is short and punchy. Don't let the example turn into a twenty-minute lecture!
When To Use It
You can use this in almost any setting. Use it in a job interview to prove your skills. Use it with a friend to explain why your new boss is driving you crazy. It is perfect for teaching someone a new hobby or explaining a complex rule. If you see a confused look on someone's face, this phrase is your best friend.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this if the situation is already very obvious. If you say, "It is raining outside; let me give you an example," people will think you are being sarcastic or strange. Also, do not use it if you do not actually have a good example ready. There is nothing more awkward than saying this and then forgetting your story! Keep it for moments that truly need extra clarity.
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, especially in the US and UK, people value "evidence-based" communication. We love facts and real-life stories. Being too abstract can make you seem vague or even untrustworthy. Using this phrase shows you are a clear thinker who cares about being understood. It is a hallmark of a good communicator and a persuasive leader.
Common Variations
You might hear people say For instance or Case in point. Some might say To illustrate my point. If you want to be very casual, you could just say Like, for example. However, Let me give you an example remains the most balanced and professional choice. It sounds confident without being stiff.
사용 참고사항
This phrase is highly versatile and safe for B2 learners. It fits perfectly in neutral to formal registers, but avoid it in very stiff academic writing where 'For instance' is preferred.
The Power of the Pause
After you say 'Let me give you an example,' pause for one second. It makes people lean in and listen more closely to what comes next.
Don't Forget the Example!
It sounds obvious, but sometimes we use this as a filler phrase. Make sure you actually have a specific story ready before you say it!
The 'Show, Don't Tell' Rule
English speakers love 'showing' rather than 'telling.' Using this phrase is the fastest way to 'show' your point and win an argument.
예시
6The software is having some sync issues. Let me give you an example: sometimes files don't appear on your phone immediately.
The software is having some sync issues. Let me give you an example: sometimes files don't appear on your phone immediately.
This clarifies a technical term ('sync issues') with a relatable problem.
He is so forgetful! Let me give you an example: he left the front door wide open yesterday.
He is so forgetful! Let me give you an example: he left the front door wide open yesterday.
This provides proof for the claim that the roommate is forgetful.
I work well under pressure. Let me give you an example of a time I handled a major deadline change.
I work well under pressure. Let me give you an example of a time I handled a major deadline change.
This is the classic 'S.T.A.R.' method in action during an interview.
He was so weird lol. Let me give you an example: he asked me for my blood type within five minutes.
He was so weird lol. Let me give you an example: he asked me for my blood type within five minutes.
Used here to share a funny, specific detail via text.
I feel like you don't value my time. Let me give you an example: you were thirty minutes late to dinner twice this week.
I feel like you don't value my time. Let me give you an example: you were thirty minutes late to dinner twice this week.
Helps express feelings by pointing to specific behaviors rather than just attacking.
Being kind means thinking of others. Let me give you an example: sharing your toys with your sister is a kind act.
Being kind means thinking of others. Let me give you an example: sharing your toys with your sister is a kind act.
Simplifies a big concept for a younger audience.
셀프 테스트
Choose the best phrase to complete the sentence in a business meeting.
Our customer service has improved significantly. ___: our response time is now under five minutes.
This is the most natural and polite way to introduce a supporting fact in a professional setting.
Complete the casual conversation.
This city is way too expensive. ___, a tiny coffee cost me eight dollars today!
'Let me give you an example' fits perfectly before sharing a specific price to prove a point.
🎉 점수: /2
시각 학습 자료
Formality Spectrum of 'Let me give you an example'
Used with friends to tell a funny story.
He's crazy! Let me give you an example...
Standard use in daily life and work.
The app is slow. Let me give you an example.
Used in speeches or presentations.
Our strategy is working. Let me give you an example from the Q3 report.
Where to use 'Let me give you an example'
Job Interview
Proving your skills with a story.
Teaching
Explaining a difficult rule.
Venting to Friends
Showing why someone is annoying.
Customer Support
Describing a technical bug.
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Not at all! It is very common in casual speech. If you want to be even faster, you can say For example or Like....
It is better to use For instance or To illustrate in writing. Let me give you an example sounds more like a spoken conversation.
Yes, it is grammatically correct, but adding you makes it feel more personal and engaging. It connects you to your listener.
For example is a short tag, while Let me give you an example is a full sentence that commands attention. Use the longer version when you want to emphasize your point.
Usually, no. You need to make a statement first, then use this phrase to support it. It requires a context to 'example' from.
It can be seen as 'mansplaining' or being patronizing if the point is very simple. Only use it for things that actually benefit from a story.
Usually, one strong example is enough. If you give too many, people might lose interest in your main point.
This is a bit more old-fashioned and informal, but people will understand you. Stick to example for a more modern feel.
That is fine! You can say, Let me give you a hypothetical example to show you are imagining a scenario.
Yes, it is used exactly the same way in the UK, Canada, Australia, and the US.
관련 표현
For instance
A slightly more formal way to introduce an example.
Case in point
Used to introduce an example that perfectly proves your point.
To illustrate
A formal way to say you are going to show how something works.
Take, for example...
A common way to start a sentence with an example.
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