‘例子’ (lì zi) is a colloquial noun meaning 'example' — something concrete used to illustrate or clarify a concept, rule, or situation. The first character 例 (lì) means 'precedent', 'case', or 'instance', while 子 (zi) is a common nominal suffix that adds a light, informal, or diminutive nuance — similar to how ‘-let’ or ‘-ling’ works in English. Together, they form a friendly, everyday word for 'example', especially in speech and informal writing.

This term appears frequently in explanations, teaching, and casual conversation — for instance, when giving illustrations of grammar usage, behavior norms, or problem-solving approaches. Unlike the more formal synonym 例证 (lìzhèng) or 事例 (shìlì), 例子 carries warmth and accessibility. It’s often preceded by measure words like 一 (yī) or 这个 (zhège), and rarely stands alone without modification.