example to imitate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "example to imitate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a model or standard that others can follow or emulate. Example: "Her dedication to her work serves as an example to imitate for all of us striving for excellence."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The commentary addressed to Gedalius became an instant success and an example to imitate.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

One gallery, for example, is meant to imitate the topography of the outer cortex as you walk around a gigantic bulbous sculpture of the subcortical brain made of opaque resin.

The New York Times - Arts

"There are techniques involved with interpreting: you interpret in the first person, for example, you try to imitate the register of the speaker, such as using slang if they use slang.

The Guardian

If asking teachers' explanation to fulfill a second function: providing typical example for students to imitate appropriate method of explaining, this overload might be the source of frustrated results: It might be hard to teach explicitly about the different forms of explanation.

Asia-Pacific Science Education

A role model is a person, commonly of an older age, maybe a celebrity or an older sister, who is looked up to by others as an example to be imitated.

Huffington Post

And yet the Python example is so hard to imitate that the group's influence on contemporary comedy is less than one might imagine.

The New York Times - Arts

Up against the Viacom communications empire that owns not only MTV but also CBS, Fuse comes across as unsure whether to defy the example of MTV or to imitate it.

The New York Times - Arts

Another interesting example, if you want to imitate the real world, you turn the lights on and off and on again every 24 hours.

TechCrunch

According to the contiguity principle [21], using examples and problems simultaneously should be more effective than using examples and problems separately, particularly when learners have to imitate worked-examples in order to solve current problems.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

In Quinn's hands, then, the exemplar theory is one according to which the life and death of Christ do indeed provide an example for us to imitate--and an example that plays an important role in effecting the transformation that will make us fit for fellowship with God.

SEP

It's the latest example of the British tendency to imitate an American style and claim it with a new name.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "example to imitate", ensure that the context clearly establishes the desired quality or behavior being emulated.

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse of "example to imitate" can make your writing sound repetitive. Consider using synonyms like "model to emulate" or "standard to follow" to add variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "example to imitate" functions as a purpose connector, linking the idea of an "example" with the intention of it being "imitated". Ludwig examples show its use in various domains.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

32%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "example to imitate" is grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, but relatively rare in usage. It serves to connect an example with the purpose of imitation. Its register is neutral, making it suitable for various contexts. Consider alternatives like "model to emulate" or "standard to follow" for variety in writing. While semantically acceptable, be mindful of overuse in more formal contexts. The sources using "example to imitate" span across science, news, and general reference, with varying degrees of frequency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standard for emulation

Focuses on surpassing a particular standard.

model for emulation

Emphasizes the act of striving to equal or excel.

precedent for following

Indicates an established action or decision to be used as a guide.

pattern for replication

Focuses on reproducing a specific design or structure.

guide for duplication

Highlights the process of creating an exact copy.

paradigm for replication

Implies a fundamental model for reproduction.

benchmark for mirroring

Suggests a high standard that others should reflect.

template for replication

Implies a pre-designed format for creating copies.

ideal for mirroring

Suggests a perfect example to reflect.

formula for duplication

Highlights a set of steps for making an exact copy.

FAQs

How can I use "example to imitate" in a sentence?

You can use "example to imitate" to refer to a model or standard that others should follow. For example, "Her dedication to her work is an "example to imitate" for all employees".

What's a good alternative to "example to imitate"?

Alternatives include "model to emulate", "standard to follow", or "pattern for replication", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "example to imitate" formal or informal?

"Example to imitate" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.

How does "example to imitate" differ from "role model"?

While both relate to emulation, "role model" typically refers to a person whose behavior is admired and copied, whereas "example to imitate" can refer to a broader range of things, such as processes or strategies.