# make an example of

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/make-an-example-of
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To punish someone so as to give a warning to others.

## Examples

- The teacher made an example of him for cheating on the test.
- The company made an example of the manager who stole funds, hoping others would learn.
- Determined to restore order, the new principal made an example of the ringleaders, suspending them publicly before the entire assembly.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.