set a bad example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'set a bad example' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone (or yourself) behaving in a way that others should not follow or emulate. For example: "The student's dishonesty in cheating on the test set a bad example for the rest of the class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Opinion

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Hitler set a bad example.

Independent

It doesn't do to set a bad example.

The Guardian - Opinion

He had received complaints that the celebrations set a bad example for children.

The New York Times - Sports

He held firm when pressed that it might set a bad example for children.

The New York Times

Shakhtar accepted the sanctions and admitted Luiz Adriano had set a bad example with "unacceptable" actions.

The Guardian - Sport

Did it set a bad example for Mr. Bernanke to follow?

The New York Times

In any event, splitting Bosnia into ethnically pure states would set a bad example for the rest of the Balkans.

The Economist

Charl Schwartzel set a bad example by smashing a club in anger on day one... and got away with it.

Independent

It would also set a bad example for other ex-Soviet republics—and give even more cause for Russian gleefulness.

The Economist

She wears short skirts, drinks, "goes wild" with men – all things that would set a bad example for her daughter.

The Guardian

Fund officials say that would set a bad example for other big borrowers like Brazil and Turkey.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing ethical leadership, use "set a bad example" to illustrate how leaders' actions can negatively impact their followers. For instance: "The CEO's unethical behavior set a bad example for the entire company."

Common error

Avoid using "giving a bad example"; the correct and more common phrasing is "setting a bad example". Giving implies providing something tangible, while setting denotes establishing a pattern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a bad example" primarily functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, often seen when describing behaviors that others should avoid emulating. For example, "Hitler set a bad example" shows a historical misuse of power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Sport

15%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Politics

5%

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set a bad example" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that someone's actions are undesirable and should not be imitated. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's most frequently used in news and media contexts to discuss ethics and behavior. Alternatives include "be a bad influence" or "set a negative precedent", each with subtle nuances. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intent to caution against specific behaviors, particularly in discussions of leadership and ethical conduct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a bad influence

Highlights the direct impact of one's actions on someone else's behavior.

set a negative precedent

Focuses on the long-term consequences and establishment of undesirable standards.

lead astray

Focuses on misleading or misguiding others.

give a poor demonstration

Emphasizes the failure to showcase appropriate behavior, particularly through demonstration.

present an unsuitable model

Focuses on providing an inappropriate figure for emulation.

exemplify misconduct

Directly implies displaying inappropriate behavior.

project an unfavorable image

Stresses the creation of a negative perception through conduct.

offer a dismal illustration

Focuses on providing an instance that embodies negative qualities.

act as a deterrent

Highlights the idea that the behavior could discourage positive actions.

provide a disservice

Underscores the action's harmful nature.

FAQs

How can I use "set a bad example" in a sentence?

You can use "set a bad example" to describe actions that others should not follow. For example, "The athlete's unsportsmanlike conduct "set a bad example" for young fans."

What does it mean to "set a bad example"?

To "set a bad example" means to behave in a way that is undesirable or inappropriate, potentially influencing others to act similarly.

Which is a better phrase, "set a bad example" or "be a bad influence"?

While both phrases convey negative impact, ""set a bad example"" focuses on the action itself, whereas "be a bad influence" emphasizes the person's overall effect on others.

What can I say instead of "set a bad example"?

Consider using alternatives such as "be a bad influence", "set a negative precedent", or "give a poor demonstration" depending on the context.