role model
/ˈrəʊl ˌmɒd.əl/
Meaning
A role model is a person whose behavior, example, or success is emulated by others, especially younger people. In academic contexts, the term is commonly used in studies about mentorship, child development, and educational psychology to describe individuals who inspire students to achieve their goals.
Examples
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My chemistry professor is a wonderful role model who inspired me to pursue a career in research.
My chemistry professor is a wonderful role model who inspired me to pursue a career in research.
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The university program pairs first-year students with older academic role models.
The university program pairs first-year students with older academic role models.
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Marie Curie serves as an outstanding role model for young women entering STEM fields.
Marie Curie serves as an outstanding role model for young women entering STEM fields.
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Parents and teachers are the primary role models for young children during their early development.
Parents and teachers are the primary role models for young children during their early development.
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He wrote his college application essay about his older brother, who has always been his role model.
He wrote his college application essay about his older brother, who has always been his role model.
Common Mistakes
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✗ She is a good roll model for her students.
✓ She is a good role model for her students.
Do not confuse the homophones 'role' (a part played by someone) and 'roll' (to turn over, or a small loaf of bread).
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✗ He acts as a model of role to his peers.
✓ He acts as a role model to his peers.
The word order is strictly 'role model' as a compound noun, not 'model of role'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The guest speaker was an excellent ___ for the aspiring entrepreneurs in the audience.
💡 A person looked up to as a good example.
Show answer
role model
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Finding a positive ___ in your field of study can help guide your career choices.
💡 An inspiring person to emulate.
Show answer
role model