What is the difference between real and hypothetical examples? Why is it important to let your audience know which type you are using, and what are some ways you can signal each of these during your speech?

What will be an ideal response?


Answer: The two types of examples are real and hypothetical. A real example is something that actually occurred, while a hypothetical example is something that could potentially happen. One could signal the audience a real example is by leading the statements with a reference to the source, such as: “I recently experienced…”; “The Wall Street Journal recently reported…”; “A local organization recently witnessed…” With hypothetical examples, use clear words that indicate this is only a potential situation, such as: “We could easily imagine…”; “A hypothetical situation would be…”; “Picture someone who could…” Examples will vary.

Communication & Mass Media

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