Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English homepage

Date: 1300-1400
Language: French
Origin: Latin instantia 'presence, urgency', from instans; INSTANT1

instance

1 noun
     
in‧stance1 S3 W2
1

for instance

for example:
We need to rethink the way we consume energy. Take, for instance, our approach to transport.
2 [countable] an example of a particular kind of situation
instance of
They came across many instances of discrimination.
instance where/when
instances where safety regulations have been breached
In this instance I think she was mistaken.
3

in the first instance

at the beginning of a series of actions:
Anyone wishing to join the society should apply in the first instance to the secretary.
4

at somebody's instance

formal because of someone's wish or request
Definition from the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
Advanced Learner's Dictionary.
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