mentor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mentor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone who provides guidance, support, or advice, typically in a professional or educational context. Example: "She has been a great mentor to me throughout my career, helping me navigate challenges and develop my skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It then took me 10 years to be in a position to help found Citizens UK as a sister training institute and organising alliance, but from 1989 onwards Ed became my trainer, critic, mentor and friend.

The Guardian

Not only has he succeeded John Hume, his mentor and a political giant in the landscape of Irish nationalism, but he has also taken on the redoubtable Seamus Mallon's role as deputy first minister in the power-sharing government.

The Guardian

Recalling his journalistic mentor, former Times editor Charlie Wilson, the brilliant Matthew Parris once said: "Charlie, foremost among others, instilled in me the understanding that journalism is a trade, not an art or a work of genius.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Derek Bardowell of the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, who has managed mentor programmes in the past, has a word of caution: "Many people do it [mentoring] quite badly.

The Guardian

He stepped down in 2011 and was replaced by his political protege in the area, Margaret Ritchie, who described McGrady as "not only my mentor and colleague but a very dear friend".

The Guardian

Miss Marquis was my mentor when I was 12 and she's my mentor now as a teacher.

The Guardian

Samuel, who works around the country, says he normally begins by discussing someone's background with their case worker before meeting with them to agree – the scheme is voluntary – to be their mentor.

The Guardian

But much of the transformation of the Queen's image, from the chilly, notoriously philistinic matriarch who couldn't care less about Diana to an ever more droll and sympathetic mentor to pitifully grateful prime ministers is surely attributable to Mirren's superb acting, and to the writers who have increasingly depicted the monarch as – so long as you are not Margaret Thatcher – fabulous company.

The Guardian - Opinion

I told Bird she was an inspiration and asked if she would mentor me.

The Guardian - Opinion

Lord Lawson of Blaby, the former Conservative chancellor who has acted as something of a mentor to George Osborne, was highly critical of the tax lock.

The Guardian

Part of me, however, would love to see the Oscar go to Steve Carell and his fascinating depiction of the troubled billionaire John du Pont and his bizarre attempt to mentor the US Olympic wrestling team in Foxcatcher.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the relationship, specify the areas in which the "mentor" provides guidance for clarity. For example: "She was a "mentor" in my career development."

Common error

Don't simply state that someone is a "mentor" without providing context. Detail the specific role the "mentor" played and the impact they had.

Linguistic Context

The word "mentor" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a trusted advisor or guide. It can also function as a verb, meaning to advise or guide someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "mentor" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, denoting a relationship of guidance and support. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It is "very common", appearing frequently in "news & media", "formal & business", and "science" contexts. When using the term, providing specific details about the "mentor"'s role and impact enhances clarity. Related terms like "trusted advisor" and "experienced guide" offer alternative ways to express similar concepts. Therefore, understanding the specific context is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

trusted advisor

Highlights the advisory role and the element of trust.

wise counselor

Emphasizes wisdom and guidance in making decisions.

experienced guide

Focuses on practical guidance and accumulated experience.

seasoned teacher

Highlights long-term experience.

guiding light

A more metaphorical and inspirational alternative.

career advisor

Specifies advice related to career progression.

leadership coach

Focuses specifically on developing leadership skills.

role model

Emphasizes setting a positive example for others.

tutor

Focuses on teaching skills and knowledge.

instructor

Implies formal teaching or training.

FAQs

How can I use "mentor" in a sentence?

You can use "mentor" as a noun, as in "She is my "mentor"", or as a verb, as in "He will "mentor" new employees". Check the examples above for different usages.

What can I say instead of "mentor"?

You can use alternatives like "trusted advisor", "experienced guide", or "wise counselor" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "mentor" as a verb?

Yes, "mentor" can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it means to guide or advise someone, such as "He will "mentor" the new recruits".

What are the qualities of a good "mentor"?

A good "mentor" typically possesses qualities such as experience, wisdom, empathy, and the ability to provide constructive feedback and guidance. They should also be a "role model" and offer support and encouragement.