shílì: 实例 - Real-world Example, Instance, Case Study

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Summary: The Chinese word 实例 (shìlì) translates to “real-world example,” “instance,” or “case study.” Unlike the general term for example, 例子 (lìzi), 实例 refers specifically to a concrete, actual case that has already happened. It is frequently used in formal, educational, business, and technical contexts (like programming) to provide tangible proof or a practical demonstration of a concept. Understanding 实例 is key to grasping how to support arguments and explanations with concrete evidence in Chinese.

Pinyin (with tone marks): shìlì

Part of Speech: Noun

HSK Level: HSK 5

Concise Definition: A real, existing example or instance used to illustrate a point.

In a Nutshell: Think of “case study” or a “real-life instance.” While you can use the common word 例子 (lìzi) for any kind of example (even a hypothetical one), 实例 (shìlì) adds weight and authority by implying “this isn't just a theoretical example; this is something that actually happened.” It's the proof in the pudding.

实 (shí): This character means “real,” “true,” “actual,” or “solid.” It's found in words like 事实 (shìshí - fact) and 实际 (shíjì - reality). It grounds the word in something tangible and factual.

例 (lì): This character means “example,” “case,” or “precedent.” It's the core component of words related to examples, like 例子 (lìzi - example).

Together, 实例 (shìlì) literally means a “real example” or “actual case.” The combination emphasizes that the example is drawn from reality, not imagination.

实例 (shìlì) reflects a highly pragmatic aspect of modern Chinese communication, particularly in education and business. There is a strong cultural emphasis on grounding abstract theories or sales pitches in tangible, proven results. Simply explaining a concept isn't as powerful as showing a real-world 实例 where it worked.

In the West, we might use the term “case study” in a very specific business or academic context. In China, the idea of using an 实例 is more broadly applied in formal situations to lend credibility to an argument. It's less about a formal report and more about the principle of using a real, verifiable example. For instance, when a teacher explains a scientific principle, they are much more likely to use a famous experiment or a common natural phenomenon as an 实例 rather than a purely abstract explanation. This approach values practicality and demonstrable evidence.

实例 is a semi-formal to formal word used when you need to be precise and convincing.

In Business and Sales: A salesperson will present a successful client's story as a “成功实例” (chénggōng shìlì - a successful case/instance) to prove their product's value. It's more persuasive than just listing features.

In Education and Academia: A professor will use an 实例 to explain a complex theory. For example, using the 2008 financial crisis as an 实例 to explain economic principles.

In Technology and Programming: This is a very common and direct translation. An “instance” of a class in object-oriented programming is called a 实例. A code snippet demonstrating a function is also a perfect 实例.

In Formal Writing and Speeches: When making an argument, citing an 实例 adds factual weight and makes your position much stronger.

The most common point of confusion is between 实例 (shìlì) and 例子 (lìzi).

Key takeaway: If you can replace “example” with “case study” or “real-world instance” in English, 实例 (shìlì) is likely the right choice. If you just mean “for instance” or a simple example, use 例子 (lìzi).

例子 (lìzi) - The general, common word for “example.” 实例 is a specific type of 例子.

范例 (fànlì) - A model example; a perfect case to be emulated. While an 实例 is just a real case, a 范例 is a *model* case.

案例 (ànlì) - A case, especially in a legal, medical, or official context (e.g., “a legal case”). It's more formal and specific than 实例.

例如 (lìrú) - A formal way to say “for example” or “such as,” used to introduce a list.

比如 (bǐrú) - A more common and slightly more informal way to say “for example.”

具体 (jùtǐ) - Concrete, specific. An 实例 is always a 具体 example.

实际 (shíjì) - Actual, practical, reality. This concept is the core of the character 实 in 实例.

事实 (shìshí) - Fact. An 实例 is used to demonstrate a 事实.