# role model

CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/role-model
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

a person you look up to and try to copy because they have good qualities or success.

For teachers: a person whose behaviour, example, or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people.

## Examples

- My older brother is a great role model for me.
- Many young athletes view professional players as role models and try to mimic their dedication to the sport.
- The CEO aimed to serve as a role model for ethical leadership, hoping to foster a culture of integrity throughout the entire corporation.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is my roll model." but "He is my role model." — the word 'role' refers to a part played in a play or society, not the verb 'roll' meaning to turn over.

## Usage notes

- usually used with the verbs 'be', 'act as', or 'serve as'.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'idol' or 'hero'; a role model is specifically someone whose actions or lifestyle you want to replicate, rather than just someone you admire from afar.

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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.