leads by example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leads by example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who demonstrates desired behaviors or practices for others to follow. Example: "As a manager, she leads by example, always putting in extra hours and supporting her team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Sports

Leadership

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If our political leadership leads by example, they are leading us in the wrong direction.

Huffington Post

A good principal leads by example.

The New York Times

He leads by example, also.

The New York Times - Sports

He always leads by example.

The Guardian

Chalmers also leads by example.

The New York Times - Sports

This humble working farm leads by example.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"J. S. leads by example," Carney said.

The New York Times - Sports

An authoritative mentor who leads by example?

Harvard Business Review

Better still, Southgate leads by example.

The Guardian - Sport

The goalie Brodeur, like the defenseman Stevens, leads by example.

The New York Times - Sports

The leader of any team leads by example.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leads by example", ensure the context clearly illustrates the specific behaviors or values being demonstrated.

Common error

Avoid using "leads by example" to describe someone who is merely present and not actively shaping behavior. The phrase implies a deliberate and positive influence through one's actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leads by example" functions as a descriptive idiom. It's used to characterize an individual's leadership style, emphasizing that they guide and motivate others through their own actions and behavior. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "leads by example" is a grammatically sound and widely recognized expression that highlights the importance of demonstrating desired behaviors. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this idiom is commonly used across various contexts, including news, business, and sports, and underscores a leadership approach rooted in action and consistency. While there are numerous alternative phrases, such as "sets a good example" or "walks the talk", "leads by example" remains a powerful and effective way to describe influential individuals whose actions speak louder than words.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

walks the talk

Indicates that actions align with words.

sets a good example

Focuses on establishing a positive model.

practices what one preaches

Highlights consistency between beliefs and actions.

models the behavior

Highlights the act of serving as a pattern of conduct.

guides through action

Emphasizes the practical guidance provided.

demonstrates leadership

Emphasizes the aspect of showing initiative and guidance.

is a role model

Emphasizes the inspirational aspect of one's behavior.

shows the way

Suggests guiding others through personal actions.

exemplifies the values

Focuses on representing specific principles through actions.

embodies the principles

Highlights the personal integration of key values.

FAQs

How can I use "leads by example" in a sentence?

You can use "leads by example" to describe someone who demonstrates desired behaviors or practices. For instance, "The coach "leads by example", always arriving early and working hard".

What are some alternatives to "leads by example"?

Alternatives include "sets a good example", "models the behavior", or "walks the talk", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "lead by example" or "leads by example"?

"Lead by example" is an imperative phrase used as a directive. "Leads by example" is used to describe someone who is currently demonstrating leadership through their actions. The correct choice depends on the intended meaning.

What does it mean when someone "leads by example"?

It means the person influences others positively by performing the actions and behaviors they wish to see in others, not just by telling them what to do. They demonstrate the desired standards and values.