Examples and Illustrations Examples are used to support general statements.
Illustrations are long, or extended, examples.
A series of several examples, like the writer uses below, is an especially effective way to organize a persuasive paragraph. One example, after all, is usually not as convincing as several. In the interest of public health, we must press harder for laws to drastically limit automobile emissions. There are simply too many drivers who ignore the fact that poorly maintained engines mean trouble for everyone in the form of polluted air. This cloud will hover over the entire block until it is finally dispersed by the wind.