a poor role model for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a poor role model for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who does not exemplify positive behaviors or qualities that others might look up to. Example: "His reckless behavior makes him a poor role model for young athletes who aspire to succeed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Some criticized Ms. Mayer as a poor role model for working women.

The New York Times

Others believe that as a child of privilege she is a poor role model for everyday Chinese people.

The New York Times

But some police and some parents objected, claiming he was a junkie and a poor role model for children.

The Economist

For all the talk about Sherman's intelligence and commitment to the game (which is of course laudable), it's a bit secondary to his actions on the football field, which were those of a person unable to control his emotions; a man who disrespected his opponents and a pro athlete who acted like a poor role model for kids and, in particular, young athletes.

The Guardian - Opinion

After his election, Puusemp chided Guldy for being a poor role model for the village youth.

Wikipedia

I would argue that the most irresponsible thing you can do for your family is to provide a poor role model for them.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

He can be weak, despicable, dangerous, untrustworthy or cruel – and nobody bemoans the fact that he makes for a poor role model.

The Guardian

This president, however, is a poor role model.

The Washington Post

His brother turned out to be a poor role model.

The New York Times

When the group reads F Scott Fitzgerald, for instance, there are plenty of puritanical students to argue that The Great Gatsby is a poor role model.

The Guardian - Books

I have been called a poor role model.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a poor role model for", ensure you clearly articulate the specific behaviors or qualities that make the person unsuitable as a positive example. Specificity strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that someone is "a poor role model for" without providing concrete examples of their negative behavior or character traits. Support your claim with evidence to make your argument more convincing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a poor role model for" functions as a descriptive phrase, specifically an adjective phrase modifying a noun, to characterize someone as failing to provide a positive example for others. Ludwig AI validates the usage, showing its consistent application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

25%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a poor role model for" is a phrase used to describe someone who does not set a positive example. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's important to use this phrase with specificity, providing concrete examples of the behaviors or qualities that make the person unsuitable as a role model. While the phrase is most common in "News & Media" sources, according to Ludwig, it is applicable across various contexts. Alternatives include "a negative influence on" and "a bad example for".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a negative influence on

This alternative directly indicates a harmful effect on someone's behavior or development.

a bad example for

This emphasizes the lack of positive qualities in the individual's actions or character.

not a good influence for

This is a slightly weaker, but still negative, assessment.

detrimental to the upbringing of

This is a more formal way of saying someone's actions are harmful to a child's development.

a corrupting influence on

This suggests a morally damaging effect.

fails to set a positive example for

This alternative focuses on the failure to provide good guidance.

sets a bad precedent for

Emphasizes the potential for others to imitate negative behavior.

offers a negative lesson to

Focuses on the instructive aspect of bad behavior.

an undesirable figure for

This alternative is a more formal and distanced way of expressing concern about someone's influence.

undermines positive values in

This highlights the conflict with accepted standards.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a poor role model for" in a sentence?

You can substitute it with phrases like "a negative influence on", "a bad example for", or "detrimental to the upbringing of" depending on the context.

What makes someone "a poor role model for" children?

A person might be considered "a poor role model for" children if they consistently display negative behaviors, unethical choices, or a lack of responsibility, which could negatively influence a child's development.

Is there a more formal way to say "a poor role model for"?

Yes, phrases like "an undesirable figure for" or "fails to set a positive example for" offer a more formal tone while conveying a similar meaning.

What is the opposite of being "a poor role model for"?

The opposite would be being "a good role model for", meaning someone who inspires and guides others through positive actions and ethical conduct.