Can we say 'model sb on sth' instead of 'model sb upon sth'?

'Model sb on sth' is less formal and less common. 'Model sb upon sth' is preferred in formal contexts.

Is 'model sb upon sth' separable?

No, it is inseparable. The person modeled always comes right after 'model'.

Can 'model sb upon sth' be used for objects?

No, it is used to describe shaping or influencing a person, not objects.

Is 'model sb upon sth' commonly used in spoken English?

It is more common in formal writing and speech rather than everyday conversation.

Model sb upon sth Meaning / Examples / How to Use

Q: What is the difference between 'model sb upon sth' and 'pattern sb after sth'?

Both mean to imitate, but 'pattern sb after sth' is more common in British English and informal usage.

Feb 1, 2025

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by

Michael Carter

in English Phrasal Verbs

What Does “Model sb upon sth” Mean?

“Model sb upon sth” means to copy or base someone’s behavior, actions, or character on someone or something else as an example.

Introduction

The phrase “Model sb upon sth” is commonly used when someone is encouraged to follow or imitate the qualities, style, or behavior of another person or thing. This expression often appears in formal or literary contexts. Understanding the “Model sb upon sth” meaning helps learners know how to talk about influence and inspiration in English clearly and naturally. When you model someone upon something, you use that something as a standard or example to shape the person’s actions or attitudes. This phrase is useful in education, leadership, and personal development discussions.

Quick Info Box

Phrasal verb: Model sb upon sth (model somebody upon something)
Type: Transitive
Level: B2–C1
Short meaning: To base someone’s behavior or character on something else

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Model sb upon sth” is a transitive phrasal verb and is inseparable. This means the object “sb” (somebody) always comes immediately after “model,” and “upon sth” follows.

Pattern: Model + somebody + upon + something

Example: They modeled the new manager upon their former leader.

How to Use “Model sb upon sth”?

Use “model sb upon sth” when you want to express that someone is being shaped or influenced by another person, idea, or example. It often applies to behavior, attitudes, or character development. The phrase is suitable in formal or written English, such as in educational contexts or leadership discussions.

It is not commonly used in casual conversations but appears in professional or academic settings.

Examples

When teaching children, many educators model their approach upon successful teachers from the past.

The company modeled its customer service policies upon those of industry leaders.
She modeled her teaching style upon her mentor’s methods.
The new code of conduct was modeled upon international standards.
He modeled his leadership upon the principles of his favorite coach.
The curriculum was modeled upon the system used by top universities.

Common Mistakes

Many learners confuse the preposition or word order when using this phrase.

Incorrect: Model something upon somebody.
Correct: Model somebody upon something.
Incorrect: Model sb on sth (less formal and less common).
Correct: Model sb upon sth (preferred in formal writing).

Differences / Synonyms

“Model sb upon sth” is similar to “pattern sb after sth” or “base sb on sth,” but there are slight differences. “Pattern sb after sth” is more common in British English and means to imitate someone’s behavior or character. “Base sb on sth” is more general and can refer to ideas or actions rather than personal traits.

The phrase “model sb upon sth” often implies a formal or intentional process of shaping behavior or character.

Common Collocations

Here are some common objects used with “model sb upon sth”:

Model sb upon a leader: To imitate a leader’s qualities.
Model sb upon a mentor: To follow a mentor’s example.
Model sb upon a system: To base behavior on a system or method.
Model sb upon a role model: To copy the traits of a role model.
Model sb upon principles: To shape character based on certain principles.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of model sb upon sth:

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation using “model sb upon sth”:

Anna: I want to improve my management skills.

Ben: You should model yourself upon our previous manager. He was very effective.

Anna: That’s a great idea. I’ll study his leadership style closely.

Practice

Choose the correct sentence:

A) The new teacher was modeled upon the experienced professor.
B) The new teacher was modeled upon the experienced professor.
C) The new teacher was modeled the experienced professor upon.

Answer: A

FAQs

Q: Can we say “model sb on sth” instead of “model sb upon sth”?
A: “Model sb on sth” is less formal and less common. “Model sb upon sth” is preferred in formal contexts.
Q: Is “model sb upon sth” separable?
A: No, it is inseparable. The person modeled always comes right after “model.”
Q: Can “model sb upon sth” be used for objects?
A: No, it is used to describe shaping or influencing a person, not objects.
Q: What is the difference between “model sb upon sth” and “pattern sb after sth”?
A: Both mean to imitate, but “pattern sb after sth” is more common in British English and informal usage.
Q: Is “model sb upon sth” commonly used in spoken English?
A: It is more common in formal writing and speech rather than everyday conversation.