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Make an Example Of

What Does "Make an Example Of" Mean?

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"Make an example of" is an English idiom. It means "to punish someone as a warning to others."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "make an example of" used in a sentence:
  • The teacher made an example of the student who cheated to deter others.
  • They made an example of him to show what happens when rules are broken.
  • The court wanted to make an example of the high-profile defendant.
meaning for make an example of

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Make an Example Of" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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