'Jǔ lì' literally means 'to raise (an) example' — 举 (jǔ) means 'to lift, to cite', and 例 (lì) means 'example' or 'precedent'. Together, they form a verb meaning 'to give an example' or 'to illustrate with an instance'. It’s commonly used in explanations, teaching, writing, and formal speech to clarify a point by providing concrete instances.

This verb is typically followed by a clause or sentence that states the example itself, often introduced by 比如 (bǐrú, 'for example') or directly embedded. It frequently appears in academic, instructional, or analytical contexts — for instance, when explaining grammar rules, scientific concepts, or social phenomena. While it can stand alone as a verb phrase, it’s rarely used without an accompanying example. Its tone is neutral-to-formal and it’s more common in written Chinese and prepared speech than in casual conversation.