Synonyms of sample

sample 1 of 2

noun

ˈsam-pəl 

1

as in sampling

a number of things selected from a group to stand for the whole

based on a sample of the menu items, we decided that this was the best restaurant in town

Synonyms & Similar Words

• sampling
• selection
• sampler
• cross section
• slice
• example
• specimen
• instance
• representative
• prototype
• illustration
• case
• paradigm
• exemplification
• classic
• exemplar
• microcosm
• locus classicus
• archetype

2

as in example

one of a group or collection that shows what the whole is like

this vase is a sample of the high-quality glassware that the glassblowers can produce

Synonyms & Similar Words

• example
• specimen
• illustration
• instance
• representative
• case
• prototype
• case in point
• indication
• exemplification
• exemplar
• cross section
• evidence
• paradigm
• classic
• manifestation
• sign
• microcosm
• locus classicus
• archetype

sample

2 of 2

verb

as in to test

to put (something) to a test

sampled the soup to see if it tasted good

Synonyms & Similar Words

• test
• examine
• try (out)
• explore
• study
• investigate
• check (out)
• feel (out)
• research
• experiment (with)
• resample
• retest

Synonym Chooser

How is the word sample distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of sample are case, example, illustration, instance, and specimen. While all these words mean "something that exhibits distinguishing characteristics in its category," sample implies a part or unit taken at random from a larger whole and so presumed to be typical of its qualities.

show us a sample of your work

When is case a more appropriate choice than sample?

While in some cases nearly identical to sample, case is used to direct attention to a real or assumed occurrence or situation that is to be considered, studied, or dealt with.

a case of mistaken identity

When can example be used instead of sample?

The meanings of example and sample largely overlap; however, example applies to a typical, representative, or illustrative instance or case.

a typical example of bureaucratic waste

When could illustration be used to replace sample?

Although the words illustration and sample have much in common, illustration applies to an instance offered as a means of clarifying or illuminating a general statement.

a telling illustration of Murphy's Law

When might instance be a better fit than sample?

In some situations, the words instance and sample are roughly equivalent. However, instance applies to any individual person, act, or thing that may be offered to illustrate or explain.

an instance of history repeating itself

In what contexts can specimen take the place of sample?

The synonyms specimen and sample are sometimes interchangeable, but specimen applies to any example or sample whether representative or merely existent and available.

one of the finest specimens of the jeweler's art

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sample

Noun

Attendees took home goodie bags filled with discount cards and samples from businesses such as SugarBears Sweet Provisions, Headlines the Salon, and others. —News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Feb. 2025

The children contributed blood and urine samples, underwent medical exams, and participated in neurological and behavioral assessments. —Maryn McKenna, Scientific American, 13 Feb. 2025

Verb

The association had worked with Ohio's health department and the CDC to sample the blood of veterinarians who treat cows at an annual conference late last year, looking for antibodies that would help answer an outstanding question: had bird flu cases infected veterinarians under the radar? —Alexander Tin, CBS News, 7 Feb. 2025

A day of sampling a variety of winter activities is planned for Sunday, Jan. 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Cleary Lake Regional Park in Prior Lake. —Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025