What Does “Model sb after sb” Mean?
“Model sb after sb” means to copy or imitate someone, often to develop similar qualities or behavior.
Introduction
The phrase “model sb after sb” is commonly used when someone tries to shape or develop a person’s character, behavior, or skills by using another person as an example. It is often used by parents, teachers, or mentors who want to encourage someone to follow the positive traits of another individual. Understanding the “model sb after sb” meaning helps learners use this phrase naturally in conversations and writing. This expression highlights the idea of learning from others and trying to be like them in some way.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: model somebody after somebody
- Type: transitive
- Level: B2
- Short meaning: to imitate or copy someone’s behavior or qualities
Structure (Grammar Rules)
The phrase “model sb after sb” is inseparable, meaning the words cannot be split by other words. The structure is:
- model + somebody + after + somebody
Example: They modeled their son after a famous scientist.
How to Use “Model sb after sb”?
Use “model sb after sb” to describe the process of shaping someone’s character or behavior by copying another person. It is usually followed by two people: the one being modeled and the one who serves as the example. This phrase is common in formal and informal contexts.
Examples
Here are a few sentences to help you understand how to use “model sb after sb in a sentence”:
- Her parents modeled her after her grandmother, who was very kind and patient.
- The coach modeled the new player after the team captain to encourage leadership skills.
- Many schools try to model their teaching methods after successful institutions.
- He was modeled after his older brother, who is an excellent musician.
- They modeled their business strategy after a well-known company in the industry.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes learners confuse the order or use the phrase incorrectly. Here are some examples of common mistakes:
- Incorrect: They modeled after their son their behavior.
Correct: They modeled their son after their behavior. - Incorrect: She modeled herself with her teacher.
Correct: She modeled herself after her teacher.
Remember, the phrase is always “model sb after sb” and never “model sb with sb” or “model after sb sb.”
Differences / Synonyms
“Model sb after sb” is similar to phrases like “pattern after” or “imitate,” but there are subtle differences:
- Model sb after sb: Focuses on shaping or developing behavior or character based on someone else.
- Pattern after sb: Means to resemble or be similar to someone, often naturally.
- Imitate: To copy actions or behavior, often temporarily or superficially.
For example, a child might be modeled after a parent to develop good habits, but they naturally pattern after their parent’s appearance.
Common Collocations
Here are some common objects used with “model sb after sb” and their meanings:
- Model a child after a role model: To shape a child’s behavior based on someone inspiring.
- Model a student after a mentor: To develop skills or attitudes similar to a mentor.
- Model a team after a successful competitor: To copy strategies or behaviors from a winning team.
- Model an organization after a leader: To organize or manage a company like a respected leader.
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of model sb after sb:
Real-life Dialogue
Here is a short conversation using “model sb after sb”:
Anna: I think we should model our new employee after Sarah.
John: Good idea. Sarah is very organized and hardworking.
Anna: Exactly. If he learns to work like her, he’ll be a great asset to the team.
Practice
Try to fill in the blanks with the correct form of the phrase:
- They decided to ______ their youngest son ______ their grandfather because of his wisdom.
- The company ______ its marketing strategy ______ a successful competitor.
- She wants to ______ her teaching style ______ her favorite professor.
FAQs
- Q1: Can you use “model sb after sb” in the past tense?
A1: Yes, for example, “They modeled their daughter after a famous artist.” - Q2: Is “model sb after sb” formal or informal?
A2: It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. - Q3: Can “model” be used without “after”?
A3: Yes, but the meaning changes. “Model” alone usually means to create or shape something. - Q4: What is the difference between “model after” and “pattern after”?
A4: “Model after” means to copy behavior intentionally, while “pattern after” means to resemble naturally. - Q5: Is “model sb after sb” separable?
A5: No, it is inseparable and must stay together in the sentence.
