be the example of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be the example of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when encouraging someone to embody a certain quality or behavior that others can look up to. Example: "As a leader, it is important to be the example of integrity and hard work for your team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"We will be the example of what peaceful means," the organisers told attendees in an online message beforehand.

The Guardian

FRANCES FREI: Right, so that would be the example of Zipcar, the customers are doing the work.

Harvard Business Review

"That's the best way to parent – to be the example of what you want to see in them.

Independent

Former national security adviser H.R. McMaster was supposed to be the example of the official who could leave the Trump administration with his dignity intact.

The Washington Post

Can his poignant story, and that of his heroic brother, Michael, at least be the example of what we are not winning after that Tuesday?

The New York Times

Mark Heller, a senior researcher at the Jaffee Center for Strategic Studies at Tel Aviv University, said the potential engine for change would be the example of a transformed Iraq.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

Most stunning is the example of energy.

The New York Times - Books

Worst of all, perhaps, is the example of Heberto Padilla.

The New Yorker

Why is the example of Leverkuhn somehow heartening for composers?

The New York Times - Books

The other is the example of the music and film industries.

The Guardian

John Warner is the example of how it can be done".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be the example of", ensure that the quality or behavior you are exemplifying is explicitly stated for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "be the example of" without specifying what you are being an example of. The phrase loses its impact if the desired quality or behavior is not clearly defined.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be the example of" functions as a directive, urging someone or something to serve as a model or standard for others. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be the example of" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, though it appears with only uncommon frequency according to Ludwig's analysis. It serves as a directive, urging the subject to act as a model or standard. Ludwig AI underscores its aptness in varied writing contexts. When employing the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what exactly is being exemplified. Related phrases include "serve as a role model", "set a precedent", and "lead by example". While its register is generally neutral, its purpose is motivational, commonly found in News & Media and Scientific articles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a model of

Stresses being a representation of a particular quality.

lead by example

Highlights active demonstration of desired behavior.

serve as a role model

Focuses on inspiring others through behavior.

set the standard for

Focuses on establishing a benchmark of quality or performance.

set a precedent

Emphasizes establishing a standard for future actions.

exemplify the best

Highlights demonstrating the finest qualities.

embody the ideal

Implies representing a perfect standard or concept.

demonstrate excellence

Emphasizes showing superior performance.

provide a template

Suggests offering a pattern for others to follow.

be a shining light

Implies being a source of guidance and inspiration.

FAQs

How can I use "be the example of" in a sentence?

You can use "be the example of" to encourage someone to embody a certain quality or behavior, such as in the sentence "As a leader, it is important to be the example of integrity and hard work for your team."

What can I say instead of "be the example of"?

Alternatives include "serve as a role model", "set a precedent", or "lead by example", depending on the specific context.

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

To "be a model of" something is similar to "be the example of", meaning to embody and demonstrate a particular quality or characteristic in a way that others can emulate. It suggests a high standard of performance or behavior.

How is "lead by example" different from "be the example of"?

"Lead by example" implies active demonstration and direct influence, while "be the example of" can be a more passive demonstration, simply embodying a desired quality without necessarily seeking to influence others directly. Both encourage positive behavior, but differ in their level of intentionality.