a role model for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a role model for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who serves as an example to others, particularly in terms of behavior, values, or achievements. Example: "She has always been a role model for young athletes, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Cohn was a role model for Stone.

The New Yorker

She is a role model for all.

The New York Times

Eugene Richards is a role model for that.

The New York Times

I'm a role model for my siblings".

The Guardian

I'm always a role model for Serena.

The New York Times - Sports

"They're a role model for other cities".

The New York Times

Bin Laden became a role model for fanatics everywhere.

The Guardian - Opinion

She was a role model for a whole generation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That, surely, makes her a role model for all women.

The New Yorker

She is a role model for women across the service.

The Guardian

Prince Philip, a role model for equal rights.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a role model for", ensure that the qualities or actions that make the person a role model are clear and relevant to the intended audience. This provides context and enhances the inspirational impact.

Common error

Avoid automatically labeling someone as "a role model for" a group without sufficient evidence or context. Ensure the individual's actions and values genuinely align with the positive attributes you want to promote. Otherwise, the claim can lack credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a role model for" functions as a noun phrase complemented by a preposition, identifying an individual who serves as an exemplar. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a role model for" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone who serves as an example for others, as verified by Ludwig AI. It appears most frequently in news and media, but is also present in formal business and scientific contexts. While alternatives like "an inspiration to" or "a guiding example for" exist, "a role model for" remains a clear and widely understood way to convey this concept. When using the phrase, ensure that the specific qualities that make the person a role model are evident to the audience. The sources confirm that it is used across the web with a consistent intent and meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inspiration to

This alternative shifts the focus to the inspirational aspect, highlighting the effect on others rather than the model's actions.

a guiding example for

This alternative emphasizes the guidance provided by the individual's actions and behavior.

a positive influence on

This alternative broadens the scope to any positive impact the person has, not necessarily through direct emulation.

an exemplar for

This alternative is a more formal term, suggesting someone who embodies excellence in a particular area.

a figure to emulate for

This highlights the act of striving to match the qualities or achievements of the person.

a shining example for

This alternative emphasizes the positive and exemplary nature of the person's behavior or achievements.

a standard-bearer for

Implies that the person sets the standards for others to follow.

a mentor to

Focuses on guidance and personal development offered by the individual.

a paragon of

This alternative suggests someone who is a perfect example of a quality or characteristic.

an ideal for

This alternative implies that the person represents a goal or aspiration for others.

FAQs

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

You can use "a role model for" to describe someone who inspires and sets a positive example for others. For example, "She is "a role model for" young women in science".

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

Alternatives include "an inspiration to", "a guiding example for", or "a positive influence on", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

While "a role model to" is sometimes used, "a role model for" is the more standard and grammatically preferred construction. "For" indicates who benefits from the example set by the role model.

What makes someone "a role model for" others?

Being "a role model for" others typically involves demonstrating positive values, achieving success through ethical means, and inspiring others through one's actions and character. It's not merely about fame or popularity, but about the positive impact one has.