noun
instance
IHNS-tuhns
noun
1
A particular example or occurrence of something.
"This is just one instance of the same problem happening across the company."
"In this instance, we'll make an exception to the rule."
2
(computing) A specific occurrence of something created from a general template, such as an object created from a class.
"The program creates a new instance of the class each time a user logs in."
verb
1
To mention or cite as an example.
"He instanced several cases where the policy had failed."
How to Use Instance
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA specific example or occurrence of something — used both in everyday speech and, more technically, in computing.
Common pairings
for instance
in this instance
a rare instance of
Word Forms
instanced past tense, instances plural, instances singular
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This is just one _____ of the same problem happening across the company.
Etymology
From Latin instantia ("presence, urgency"), from instans ("urgent, pressing").