to set an example

USAGE SUMMARY

"to set an example" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone demonstrating a certain behavior or attitude that others should follow. For example: "The teacher wanted to set an example by arriving early to class every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I wanted to set an example".

The New York Times

Europe wants to set an example.

The Economist

"But we want to set an example".

The New York Times

But I had to set an example.

The Guardian - Travel

Kline: "For leaders to set an example.

The Guardian

You have to set an example".

The Guardian - Sport

We want to set an example.

The New York Times

Somebody has to set an example of superiority.

The New York Times - Sports

"You always try to set an example as a captain.

The Guardian - Sport

Big oil has lost its chance to set an example.

The Guardian - Business

Kovtun then allegedly replied: "It's meant to set an example".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to set an example" when you want to illustrate the purpose of an action, indicating that it's intended to be emulated by others. For instance, "The manager volunteered for the project to set an example for the team."

Common error

Avoid assuming that simply performing an action with the intention of setting an example automatically makes it effective. Consider whether the action is truly exemplary and whether it will be perceived as such by others. An ineffective or poorly executed attempt can undermine your intended message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to set an example" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used as an adverbial of purpose. It modifies a verb, explaining the reason or intention behind the action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates demonstrating a certain behavior for others to follow.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to set an example" is a common and grammatically correct infinitive phrase used to express the purpose behind an action—inspiring others to follow suit. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate usage in various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Formal & Business settings, this phrase emphasizes the intention to influence behavior. While it's essential to ensure that the action is truly exemplary and effectively communicated, using alternatives like "to lead by example" or "to serve as a role model" can add nuance depending on the desired emphasis. Remember, setting an example involves both intention and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to lead by example

Emphasizes the act of guiding others through one's own actions and behavior.

to serve as a role model

Highlights the inspirational aspect of the behavior, focusing on being a positive figure for others.

to be a guiding light

Implies providing direction and inspiration, often in a moral or ethical sense.

to demonstrate best practices

Focuses on showing the most effective or ideal way of doing something, typically in professional contexts.

to embody excellence

Suggests representing a high standard of quality or achievement that others can aspire to.

to blaze a trail

Indicates pioneering new approaches or behaviors for others to follow.

to set the standard

Highlights establishing a benchmark for others to meet or exceed.

to be a paragon

Conveys being an outstanding example of a particular quality or virtue.

to show the way

Emphasizes guiding or directing others through one's own actions or experiences.

to set a precedent

Focuses on establishing a pattern or rule that will be followed in similar situations in the future.

FAQs

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

You can use "to set an example" to explain the reason behind an action, suggesting it's meant to be followed by others. For instance, "She always arrives early "to set an example" for her colleagues".

What's a good alternative to "to set an example"?

Consider using alternatives like "to lead by example", "to serve as a role model", or "to demonstrate best practices", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "to set an example"?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight that an action is being performed with the intention of influencing others to behave or act in a similar way. This is often used in leadership, parenting, and educational contexts.

What is the difference between "to set an example" and "to make an example of"?

"To set an example" implies inspiring positive behavior through one's actions. In contrast, "to make an example of" often means punishing someone severely as a warning to others. The phrases have opposite connotations.