be a role model

USAGE SUMMARY

'be a role model' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to encourage someone to set a good example for others. For example, "You are a leader in your community: take the opportunity to be a role model for those who look up to you."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Could Nixon be a role model?

The Economist

He will, however, be a role model.

The Economist

"Rocky," he said, "be a role model".

The New York Times

He wants to be a role model.

The New York Times - Sports

Find and be a role model.

Stanford University

"I'd love to be a role model," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

And I'm thrilled to be a role model to kids.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

You're a role model.

The New Yorker

He has been a role model".

Independent

Eugene Richards is a role model for that.

The New York Times

You're a role model every moment.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When encouraging someone to "be a role model", be specific about the qualities or behaviors you want them to exemplify.

Common error

Avoid implying that someone must be perfect to "be a role model". Emphasize that genuine effort and positive intent are more important than flawlessness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a role model" functions as an imperative, urging someone to adopt behaviors and qualities that others can admire and emulate. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

19%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a role model" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to encourage individuals to set a positive example for others. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used across various sources, including news media, formal business communications, and academic discussions. While it carries a neutral register, its effectiveness lies in its directness and clarity. Remembering to emphasize genuine effort and positive intent, rather than perfection, can prevent overstating the responsibility. Considering alternatives such as "set a good example" or "serve as an inspiration" can also add nuance to your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set a good example

Focuses on the act of demonstrating positive behavior.

serve as an inspiration

Highlights the ability to motivate and uplift others.

be a guiding light

Emphasizes providing direction and moral support.

be an exemplar

Stresses being a perfect instance or model.

embody positive traits

Focuses on representing desirable characteristics.

be a person to emulate

Highlights the act of imitating someone's behavior.

be a moral compass

Emphasizes providing ethical guidance and direction.

be a beacon of hope

Focuses on providing inspiration and optimism in difficult situations.

be a figure of inspiration

Highlights the inspirational qualities of a person.

be an admirable person

Focuses on deserving respect and admiration.

FAQs

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

You can use "be a role model" to encourage someone to set a positive example. For instance, "As a teacher, you have the opportunity to "be a role model" for your students".

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

Alternatives include "set a good example", "serve as an inspiration", or "be a guiding light", depending on the context.

Is it better to "become a role model" or "be a role model"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "be a role model" is more direct, while "become a role model" suggests a process of development.

What does it mean to "be a role model"?

To "be a role model" means to conduct yourself in a way that others, especially younger individuals, can admire and emulate, demonstrating positive values and behaviors.