modelling on a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modelling on a" is not correct in standard written English.
It may be intended to convey the idea of creating a model based on something, but the correct expression would typically be "modeling after" or "modeling on." Example: "The new design is modeling after the successful prototype we developed last year."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

I wouldn't mention hand modelling on a date.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There were photographs of Brett mountaineering, white-water kayaking, playing tennis, limboing on a Caribbean beach, modelling on a catwalk and shaking hands with Prince Charles.

The Guardian - Books

As part of the Greens' negotiations with Labor in 2010, Christine Milne requested that the Australian Energy Market Operator conduct detailed modelling on a 100% renewable energy plan for Australia.

The Guardian - Opinion

Aimed at fixed bed column design, surfactin adsorption modelling on a single microporous pellet is demonstrated.

Biochemical Engineering Journal

Neural field modelling, on a line or a surface, is a very well-known framework for capturing the dynamics of cortex at this coarse level of description [10].

The Journal of Mathematical Neuroscience

Fig. 3 Effect of full Monte Carlo collimator modelling on a contrast recovery (p values left to right = 0.041, 0.048, 0.086, 0.040) and b background variability for the 40- and 30-mm sphere sizes.

EJNMMI Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Dani is the latest example, one who happens to be modeled on a real person.

The New York Times - Arts

It was modeled on a Fiat 124.

The New York Times

Reliefs are modeled on a vertical or nearly vertical board.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Paulette Goddard, Charlie Chaplin's third wife, bought a minaudière, a bejewelled clutch, modelled on a Lucky Strike cigarette box.

The New Yorker

The society was modeled on a Communist cell, a unit that Harry knew well.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "modelling on a" in formal writing. Opt for more standard alternatives such as "modeling after a", "based on a", or "inspired by a" for clarity and grammatical correctness.

Common error

A frequent mistake is using "on" instead of "after" or "upon" when describing something being modeled. Ensure you use the correct preposition to maintain grammatical accuracy and avoid confusion. For instance, use "modeling after" instead of "modelling on".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modelling on a" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically intended to describe the basis or inspiration for something. However, it is not grammatically correct in standard English. Ludwig suggests the alternative of using "modeling after", "based on a" or "inspired by a".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "modelling on a" appears in various sources, including scientific and news media, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically incorrect. Standard English alternatives such as "modeling after a", "based on a", or "inspired by a" should be preferred. The frequency of this incorrect phrase is uncommon, and its usage is spread across science, news, and encyclopedia domains. To ensure clarity and grammatical accuracy, it is best to adopt the suggested alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

modeling after

This alternative provides a more grammatically sound and widely accepted way to express basing something on a model or example.

based on a

This is a common and correct way to indicate that something is derived from or influenced by something else.

following a model of

This alternative emphasizes adherence to an established standard or exemplar.

patterned after a

This implies a structural or design similarity to a prior example.

inspired by a

This suggests a creative influence, rather than a direct copy or model.

drawing inspiration from a

This phrase emphasizes the act of actively taking ideas or elements from a source.

replicating a

This suggests an effort to create an exact copy of the referenced model.

imitating a

This alternative implies a deliberate attempt to mimic the style or characteristics of something else.

mirroring a

This phrase describes a very close resemblance, as if one thing reflects another.

taking a cue from

This phrase suggests a subtle form of influence or borrowing of ideas.

FAQs

What is the correct way to say something is based on a model?

Instead of "modelling on a", use phrases like "modeling after", "based on a", or "inspired by a" to clearly convey that something is derived from a particular model or source.

Which preposition should I use: 'on' or 'after' when discussing models?

When indicating that something is created following a model, "after" is generally more appropriate. "Modeling after" is a more grammatically correct and widely understood alternative to "modelling on". For example, "The design is modeling after the original prototype."

Are there other phrases I can use instead of "modelling on a"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "patterned after a", "replicating a", or "imitating a" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "modeling after" and "inspired by"?

"Modeling after" suggests a direct and intentional replication or adaptation of a model. "Inspired by" implies a more indirect influence, where the original source serves as a creative spark but doesn't necessarily dictate the final form.