example to be followed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'example to be followed' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a model or ideal that someone or something else should imitate. For example, "My brother is an example to be followed for his dedication to charitable causes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

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

The point was made by Heiner Flassbeck, who is unusual in that he is a German economist who thinks his country is the problem rather than an example to be followed by the rest of Europe.

The Guardian - Business

He said the virtual memorial "is a tremendous way, in these modern days, to pay tribute to those who have given their lives for their country, and an example to be followed by other communities".

The New York Times

New developments within existing urban areas will often be easier to serve by public transport than stand-alone settlements, and eco-quarters could also set a wider example to be followed.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Every effort must be deployed so that Guinea-Bissau will no longer be a burden on the international community but will instead become an example to be followed," President Vaz said.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The well-known national parks in the United States and Canada are often quoted as examples to be followed elsewhere.

Nature

Oh, well, I have many female role models – and this means people looked to by others as examples to be followed.

BBC

Yet Edward conceded Jane's right only as an exception to male rule, demanded by reality, an example not to be followed if Jane or her sisters had only daughters.

Wikipedia

This example needs to be followed.

European Parliament

Although some of the decorations to arias went rather far, as Mackerras himself later admitted, his example was soon to be followed far and wide.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "example to be followed", ensure the context clearly identifies who or what is setting the example and what specific aspects are worth emulating.

Common error

Avoid using "example to be followed" without clearly specifying the subject or context. Ambiguity can weaken the impact of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "example to be followed" functions as a noun phrase that identifies someone or something that should be imitated. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "example to be followed" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for indicating a model worthy of emulation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, but clarity is crucial to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives such as "model to emulate" or "standard to uphold" for nuanced expression. When you want to indicate a model, use this phrase with confidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

model to emulate

Focuses on imitation as a key element of following an example.

standard to uphold

Highlights the importance of maintaining a certain level of excellence.

precedent to set

Emphasizes the act of establishing a pattern for future actions.

benchmark to achieve

Focuses on reaching a specific level of performance or quality.

ideal to strive for

Implies a continuous effort to reach a perfect state.

template to replicate

Stresses the reproduction of a successful pattern.

guideline to observe

Highlights the importance of adhering to a set of rules.

pattern to mirror

Focuses on reflecting a behavior or process.

blueprint to implement

Implies a structured plan that should be followed.

paradigm to adopt

Focuses on accepting a new way of thinking or doing things.

FAQs

How can I use "example to be followed" in a sentence?

Use "example to be followed" to describe a person, action, or achievement that others should imitate, such as, "Her commitment to environmental protection is an "example to be followed" by all citizens".

What are some alternatives to "example to be followed"?

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

Is it better to say "an example to follow" or "example to be followed"?

"Example to be followed" implies a more formal and passive construction, while "an example to follow" is more direct and active. Both are grammatically correct, but the best choice depends on the desired tone.

Can "example to be followed" refer to a negative example?

While less common, "example to be followed" can be used sarcastically to refer to a negative example. However, it's crucial to ensure the context makes your intent clear to avoid confusion. A better phrasing for a negative example might be "a cautionary tale".