such as
/sʌtʃ æz/
Meaning
This phrase is used to introduce specific examples that belong to a broader category just mentioned. It is highly common in academic writing to define, illustrate, or limit a general noun. Unlike 'for example,' 'such as' is a prepositional phrase and is rarely used to start a complete, independent sentence.
Examples
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The course covers modern historical events, such as the Industrial Revolution.
The course covers modern historical events, such as the Industrial Revolution.
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Students should avoid drinking caffeinated beverages, such as coffee or energy drinks, before bed.
Students should avoid drinking caffeinated beverages, such as coffee or energy drinks, before bed.
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Developing countries, such as Vietnam and Kenya, are experiencing rapid economic growth.
Developing countries, such as Vietnam and Kenya, are experiencing rapid economic growth.
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We need to discuss important issues, such as funding and scheduling, at the next meeting.
We need to discuss important issues, such as funding and scheduling, at the next meeting.
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Natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes can cause severe infrastructure damage.
Natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes can cause severe infrastructure damage.
Common Mistakes
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✗ We studied ancient civilizations such as, Rome and Greece.
✓ We studied ancient civilizations, such as Rome and Greece.
Do not put a comma directly after 'such as'. The comma, if needed, should go before 'such as' to separate the main clause from the examples.
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✗ The library has many resources, such as books, journals, and etc.
✓ The library has many resources, such as books and journals.
'Such as' already indicates that you are listing a few examples from a larger set, so adding 'etc.' at the end of the list is redundant.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The laboratory is equipped with advanced tools, ___ microscopes and centrifuges.
💡 Used to introduce specific items belonging to a category.
Show answer
such as
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In this seminar, we will analyze major poets, ___ Emily Dickinson and Robert Frost.
💡 Introduces examples of the poets.
Show answer
such as