to become an example

USAGE SUMMARY

"to become an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a situation in which someone is setting an example for others to follow. For example, "He was determined to become an example for others, so he worked hard to achieve his goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Is China ready to become an example for the world about how to promote and enjoy sustainable long-term prosperity?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Such a pregnancy cannot be allowed to become an example for anyone to follow," he told Spiegel.

The Guardian

"Their lives are so hard already, and the last thing they need is to become an example of disappointment in another person's eyes," he says.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

He should die to become an example for his colleagues, and that will only be a small part of what he deserves".

The New York Times

In their remarks, both Scicluna and Tomasi said the Catholic church was keen to become "an example of best practice" in the sphere of child protection.

The Guardian

"Again, I want to thank the commissioner for the chance to return to the game I love and the opportunity to become an example of positive change".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Using the face of an angry pigeon as their Facebook logo, the "pigeons" warned that the tax measure would stifle creativity, kill the start-up boom, force them to flee France and become "an example of hostility to entrepreneurism in Europe and in the world".

The New York Times

Bauhäusle wasn't intended to become a celebrated example of alternative student living.

The Guardian

I always explain to him that he has an opportunity to become a good example and make a good choice.

The Guardian - Sport

This episode also contained what ought to become a textbook example of how not to use colour.

The Guardian

It probably would not have made any difference: the weighty 200-page Treasury report is on course to become a classic example of ignored statistics.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to become an example" to illustrate a proactive and intentional effort to model behavior or standards for others. This phrase often carries a sense of purpose and aspiration.

Common error

Avoid using "to become an example" in contexts where someone is unintentionally made an example of, especially in a negative way. Instead, use phrases like "to serve as a warning" or "to be made an example of" to convey unintended consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to become an example" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose or intention. It indicates the aim or goal of someone or something to serve as a model for others to follow. Ludwig shows that this construction is generally accepted and used across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to become an example" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that conveys the intention of serving as a model for others. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the phrase appears across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic sources. Its usage implies a proactive desire to inspire and lead by setting positive standards. While it maintains a neutral to professional tone, it's essential to use it in appropriate contexts, avoiding scenarios where the example is unintended or negative. Alternatives like "to serve as a role model" or "to be a shining example" can be considered for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be a shining example

Emphasizes the positive and inspiring nature of the example being set.

to serve as a role model

This alternative highlights the aspect of inspiring others through personal behavior and actions.

to set a precedent

This option focuses on establishing a standard for future actions or decisions.

to be a guiding light

This phrase emphasizes providing direction and inspiration to others.

to embody best practices

This alternative suggests representing the most effective and ethical standards.

to be a model of excellence

This option highlights the achievement of high standards and quality.

to personify a virtue

This conveys the idea of representing a positive quality or characteristic in an ideal way.

to exemplify ideal conduct

Focuses on demonstrating proper or exemplary behavior.

to demonstrate leadership

This highlights the aspect of guiding and influencing others through example.

to act as a benchmark

Focuses on establishing a standard against which others are measured.

FAQs

How can I use "to become an example" in a sentence?

You can use "to become an example" to describe someone or something that aims to set a standard or model for others. For instance, "She strives "to become an example" of ethical leadership in her company".

What are some alternatives to "to become an example"?

Alternatives include "to serve as a role model", "to set a precedent", or "to be a shining example" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "to become an example" or "to be an example"?

"To become an example" suggests an active and intentional effort to set a standard. "To be an example" implies simply serving as one, whether intentionally or not. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

What does it mean when someone says they want "to become an example"?

It typically means they aspire to model positive behavior, values, or achievements, hoping that others will follow suit. It indicates a proactive intention to influence others through their actions.