to be a shining example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be a shining example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that serves as a model of excellence or a positive standard for others to follow. Example: "Her dedication to community service makes her to be a shining example for all of us."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

A killer turned healer might seem to be a shining example of prison rehabilitation.

The New York Times - Health

To be a shining example of a real person, striving to be the best I can be, the best person, and father".

Independent

To be a shining example of democratic law, we should not exempt ourselves from the international law we fought for and helped create.

The New York Times

From those humble origins, 21c has risen up to be a shining example of hotel marrying a love of modern art and a commitment to Southern hospitality.

The Guardian - Travel

The United Nations was tasked with putting in place a new, democratic government that was to be a shining example of the international organization's role in the post-Cold War era.

The Washington Post

With too many misguided governors and legislators around the country trying to deny women the freedom to have an abortion, New York State was supposed to be a shining example of a government that cares about a woman's right to choose.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Their mama fashioned tools from her trials and will be able to pass them down and be a shining example of survival and triumph amidst tribulation.

Huffington Post

"I'd hardly be a shining example to the young athletes of the future".

The New York Times - Sports

350.org executive director May Boeve commented: "Long Island can be at the forefront of this movement, and be a shining example to the world".

Huffington Post

If hawks such as Aliyev can be overthrown or the Azeris finally see reason, then Azerbaijan and Armenia, along with their joint neighbor Georgia can form an economic corridor that would be a shining example to the world.

Huffington Post

So it will be a shining example of jurisprudence.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific context and choose a related phrase if a more nuanced meaning is required. For instance, use "to be a role model" when focusing on behavior or "to be a model of excellence" when focusing on skill.

Common error

Avoid using "to be a shining example" in very casual or informal settings. Its slightly elevated tone can sound out of place in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "to be a good example" or "to be someone to look up to".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be a shining example" functions as a predicate nominative or a subject complement. It describes the subject by equating it with an exemplar. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where the phrase follows a linking verb (e.g., "is", "was").

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

16%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be a shining example" is a grammatically correct and generally accepted expression used to describe something or someone exemplary. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its positive connotation and its applicability across different contexts, though it's more frequent in news and media. While versatile, it’s crucial to consider the level of formality. While the expression certainly carries positive connotations it should be used sparingly in informal contexts, and related alternatives might be more appropriate. When looking for alternative phrasing, consider "to be a role model" or "to set a good example" depending on your intention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be a model of excellence

Directly states the quality of being outstanding in a particular field or skill.

to be a role model

Focuses specifically on serving as a model for behavior or achievement.

to be an exemplary figure

Emphasizes the quality of being outstanding and worthy of imitation.

to be an inspiration

Highlights the capacity to motivate and encourage others.

to set a good example

Highlights the act of consciously providing a positive model for others.

to be a gold standard

Implies a benchmark against which others are measured.

to lead by example

Emphasizes demonstrating desired behavior rather than just advocating it.

to be a beacon of light

Uses a metaphorical image to suggest guidance and hope.

to be a guiding light

Suggests providing direction and support to others.

to be a paragon of virtue

Implies exceptional moral excellence and serves as an ideal.

FAQs

How can I use "to be a shining example" in a sentence?

You can use "to be a shining example" to describe someone or something that embodies a particular quality or behavior to an exceptional degree. For instance, "Her dedication to environmental protection makes her "to be a shining example" for all of us".

What are some alternatives to "to be a shining example"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to be a role model", "to set a good example", or "to be an inspiration".

Is it better to say "to be a shining example" or "to set a shining example"?

"To be a shining example" describes someone's state or quality, while "to set a shining example" describes an action. The better choice depends on whether you're describing a quality or an action. For example, "She is "to be a shining example" of hard work" versus "She strives to "set a shining example" for her children".

What does it mean for someone "to be a shining example"?

It means that they are considered an excellent model for others to follow due to their exceptional qualities, behaviors, or achievements. It suggests they are worthy of admiration and emulation.