are a model of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are a model of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that exemplifies a particular quality or standard. Example: "The students' dedication and hard work are a model of excellence for their peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jokes are a model of narrative economy.

The Guardian - Books

Now they are a model of organized prosperity.

The New Yorker

French politics are a model of duplicity and corruption.

The Guardian - Books

They are a model of clear science communication.

The New York Times

Set in a forest, the prison blocks are a model of minimalist chic.

The Guardian

"Abraham Lincoln's SOTU addresses are a model of the now endangered genre," Altschuler writes.

Cornell University

For Vladyslava, as for Mykola, Tony's books are a model of how to be provocative without playing games.

The New Yorker

By comparison Notts County are a model of stability after flirting with Middle Eastern owners and Sven-Goran Eriksson.

The Guardian - Sport

However, the open, flowing spaces of the single-level foyer and terraces are a model of democratic space.

The Guardian - Arts

Some contingents, such as the Nordic battlegroup, are a model of integration.

The Economist

His instructions to North Korea's creative types are a model of clarity.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are a model of", follow it with a specific description of the qualities being exemplified. This provides clarity and strengthens the comparison.

Common error

Avoid using "are a model of" without specifying what makes something exemplary. Saying "This company are a model of success" is vague. Instead, state: "This company are a model of innovation in sustainable energy solutions."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are a model of" functions as a predicative expression, attributing a quality of being exemplary to the subject. It is used to highlight something as a standard or ideal to be emulated. This is supported by Ludwig AI's analysis, indicating its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are a model of" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to highlight something as an exemplar or standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a versatile expression that is suitable across various registers, although most common in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. When using "are a model of", ensure that the specific qualities being modeled are clearly defined to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "serve as an example of" or "embody the essence of" can provide nuanced variations to your writing. By following best practices and avoiding common errors, you can effectively use the expression "are a model of" to praise, endorse, or showcase superior qualities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serve as an example of

Replaces "are a model of" with a more explicit phrasing emphasizing exemplification.

represent a standard of

Highlights that something embodies a particular benchmark or level of quality.

exemplify

A concise verb that means 'to be a typical example of'.

embody the essence of

Indicates something perfectly captures the most important qualities of something else.

epitomize

Implies being a perfect example, the best possible representation.

stand as a testament to

Suggests something provides clear evidence or proof of a particular quality or achievement.

set the benchmark for

Emphasizes establishing a high standard that others should aspire to.

provide an illustration of

Offers a clearer, more descriptive example.

act as a paradigm of

Uses more formal language to indicate a clear pattern or example.

mirror the qualities of

Emphasizes the similarities and reflections of essential attributes.

FAQs

How can I use "are a model of" in a sentence?

Use "are a model of" to describe something or someone that exemplifies a specific quality or set of qualities. For example, "Their dedication and hard work are a model of excellence."

What is a good alternative to "are a model of"?

Alternatives include "serve as an example of", "represent a standard of", or "embody the essence of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "are a model of" differ from "are an example of"?

"Are a model of" often implies a higher standard or ideal to be emulated, whereas "are an example of" is a more general term simply indicating an instance of something. You would use "are a model of" when praising something for its superior qualities.

When is it appropriate to use "are a model of" in formal writing?

It's appropriate in formal writing when you need to highlight something that sets a high standard or exemplifies best practices. Ensure your usage is precise and the qualities being modeled are clearly defined.