an example to follow

USAGE SUMMARY

'an example to follow' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when you are referring to a person or thing that is worthy of emulation or imitation. For example, "He has been an example to follow for the younger generation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

He has an example to follow.

The New Yorker

I don't think it's an example to follow, but I don't think it'll last very long.

The Guardian - Film

In Madrid, the locksmiths of Pamplona are being held up as an example to follow.

The Guardian

But supporters of the Colorado proposal cited New Mexico as an example to follow.

The New York Times

"He is an example to follow because he gives everything to the team".

The New York Times - Sports

All of you here today – you possess something the generation before yours did not: an example to follow.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

A role model is a person regarded as a good example to follow, whose behavior and quality is worth adopting.

Annals of Surgical Oncology

To be fair, it is an awesome example to follow.

The Guardian

It's a great accomplishment and an example to be followed".

The New York Times - Arts

No wonder Foster sees in her an example to be followed by everyone who writes Irish history.

The Guardian - Books

In contrast, a 'role model' is simply "a person regarded by others, especially younger people, as a good example to follow".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an example to follow" to inspire and motivate others by showcasing positive behaviors, strategies, or outcomes.

Common error

Avoid presenting something as "an example to follow" without providing sufficient context or evidence to support its effectiveness or suitability. Be specific about why it's a good example.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an example to follow" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability for referring to something worthy of imitation, as demonstrated across various example sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an example to follow" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a model worthy of emulation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is frequently employed across diverse fields, including news, science, and business. To maximize its impact, ensure that the subject presented as "an example to follow" is well-defined and demonstrably positive. Be cautious against overgeneralization and provide sufficient context to support its suitability. By considering these best practices, you can effectively leverage this phrase to inspire and guide others towards positive actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a model to emulate

Focuses on the act of imitation, suggesting a high degree of similarity.

a precedent to set

Emphasizes establishing a standard for future actions or decisions.

a pattern to replicate

Highlights the act of copying a specific design or method.

a standard to uphold

Implies maintaining a certain level of quality or behavior.

a benchmark to achieve

Stresses the goal of reaching a specific level of performance.

a guideline to adopt

Indicates acceptance and implementation of a recommended practice.

a template to use

Suggests a ready-made framework for a specific purpose.

a course to pursue

Highlights the direction or path one should take.

a lesson to learn

Emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge or skill.

a paradigm to embrace

Suggests a fundamental shift in thinking or approach.

FAQs

How can I use "an example to follow" in a sentence?

You can use "an example to follow" to highlight a person, method, or achievement that others should emulate. For instance, "Her dedication to her community is "an example to follow" for all of us."

What are some alternatives to "an example to follow"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a model to emulate", "a precedent to set", or "a standard to uphold", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "an example to follow" differ from "a role model"?

While both terms relate to positive influence, "an example to follow" refers more broadly to any practice or entity worthy of emulation, whereas "a role model" typically refers to a person whose behavior and qualities are worthy of imitation.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "an example to follow"?

It's appropriate in various contexts, including educational, professional, and personal settings, where the goal is to encourage positive behavior or highlight effective strategies. Using it in business, you can say "Their customer service is "an example to follow"."