in·stance
ˈin(t)-stən(t)s
1
: a step, stage, or situation viewed as part of a process or series of events
prefers, in this instance, to remain anonymous—The Times Literary Supplement (London)
2
: the institution and prosecution of a lawsuit : suit
3
4
a
: instigation, request
am writing to you at the instance of my client
b
archaic
: urgent or earnest solicitation
c
obsolete
: an impelling cause or motive
instanced; instancing
1
: to illustrate or demonstrate by an instance
2
: to mention as a case or example : cite
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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