a model for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a model for" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to or describe something that can be used as an example to be imitated or followed. For example: We want this company to be a model for other businesses in the industry.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

A model for Serbia and Kosovo?

The Economist

"Latvia is not a model for anybody".

The New York Times

It became a model for other cities.

The New Yorker

It was a model for the future".

The Guardian - Music

They became a model for other agencies.

The New York Times

That became a model for us".

The New York Times - Arts

There is a model for improvement.

The New York Times

Now it seems a model for them.

The New Yorker

What a model for his faith.

The Guardian

"It's a model for the world".

The New York Times

Could Linux be a model for farming?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a model for" when you want to highlight that something sets a good example that others can follow or imitate. For instance, you can say, "This project can be a model for future initiatives".

Common error

Avoid using "a model for" with overly abstract nouns that lack concrete examples. For example, instead of saying "This theory is a model for understanding", provide specific ways the theory serves as a practical guide.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a model for" functions as a noun phrase complement or appositive, often following a verb like 'is', 'became', or 'serves as'. Ludwig AI confirms its use in indicating something that sets an example or standard.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a model for" is a commonly used phrase that indicates something serves as an example to be imitated or followed. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and formal business settings, it designates a high standard or intentional design. To ensure clarity, it's best used with concrete nouns. Alternatives include ""a template for"" or ""an example of"" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a template for

Focuses on the idea of providing a structured guide or format.

an exemplar for

Emphasizes the quality of being an outstanding example.

a paradigm for

Highlights the role as a typical example or pattern.

a blueprint for

Suggests a detailed plan or design that others can follow.

a standard for

Indicates setting a benchmark or level of quality.

a pattern for

Implies a recurring arrangement that can be imitated.

a guide for

Suggests providing direction or instruction.

an inspiration for

Focuses on providing creative or motivational stimulus.

a benchmark for

Highlights the use as a point of reference or comparison.

a touchstone for

Emphasizes the role as a test or criterion for quality or genuineness.

FAQs

How can I use "a model for" in a sentence?

You can use "a model for" to describe something that serves as an example to be imitated or followed. For example, "This program is "a model for" other similar initiatives".

What are some alternatives to saying "a model for"?

Some alternatives to "a model for" include "a template for", "an example of", or "a blueprint for", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a model to" instead of "a model for"?

The phrase "a model for" is generally preferred because it specifies what something serves as an example for. "A model to" is less common and might sound awkward to some readers. Using "a model for" is usually more grammatically sound and clearer.

What's the difference between "a model for" and "an example of"?

"A model for" implies that something is intended to be imitated, while "an example of" simply indicates that something illustrates a particular concept or type. While related, "a model for" suggests a higher standard or intentional design.