Model sth on sb Meaning / Examples / How to Use

What Does “Model sth on sb” Mean?

“Model sth on sb” means to design or create something based on a person or their example. It involves copying or imitating someone’s style, behavior, or method.

Introduction

The phrase “Model sth on sb” is commonly used in English to describe the act of using someone as a pattern or example when creating or developing something. This could be a product, a plan, a behavior, or even an idea. Understanding the “Model sth on sb meaning” helps learners see how English speakers express influence and inspiration in various contexts. By modeling something on someone, you show respect or trust in that person’s way of doing things, often hoping to achieve similar success or results. This phrase is useful in everyday conversations, business, education, and creative fields.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: Model sth on sb (model something on somebody)
• Type: Transitive
• Level: B2–C1
• Short meaning: To base something on the example of someone else

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Model sth on sb” is a transitive phrasal verb. It is separable, meaning the object (something) can come between “model” and “on,” or after “on.” However, in practice, the full phrase usually stays together for clarity.

• Model something on somebody (preferred)
• Model something on somebody
• Incorrect: Model on somebody something

Patterns:

• Model + [something] + on + [somebody]
• Example: They modeled their new policy on the successful one from last year.

How to Use “Model sth on sb”?

Use “model sth on sb” when you want to say that one thing is created or designed using someone else as an example. This phrase is often used in formal and informal contexts, such as business, design, education, and personal development. It emphasizes copying or adapting ideas, styles, or methods.

For example, you might say, “The new software was modeled on a popular app,” meaning the new software was created by using the popular app as an example.

Examples

Here are some natural examples to help you understand how to model sth on sb in a sentence:

• The architect modeled the building on a famous design from Europe.
• Our training program is modeled on the best practices used by leading companies.
• She modeled her presentation on her mentor’s clear and confident style.
• The company’s customer service policy was modeled on that of a successful competitor.
• The new curriculum is modeled on international education standards.

Common Mistakes

Many learners confuse word order or prepositions when using this phrase. Here are some examples:

• Incorrect: They modeled on the design the new product.
• Correct: They modeled the new product on the design.
• Incorrect: She modeled her speech after her teacher. (While common, the preferred phrase is “on” not “after” in this context.)
• Correct: She modeled her speech on her teacher.

Differences / Synonyms

Other phrases like “copy,” “imitate,” or “pattern after” are similar but have subtle differences. “Model sth on sb” suggests a thoughtful or intentional design based on someone else’s example, often with improvements. “Copy” can imply exact duplication, sometimes without permission or creativity.

“Pattern after” is a close synonym but is less common and more formal. “Imitate” often refers to behavior or style rather than objects or plans.

Common Collocations

When using “model sth on sb,” certain objects commonly appear:

• Model a plan on sb: To base a plan on someone’s example
• Model a design on sb: To create a design inspired by someone
• Model a policy on sb: To use someone’s policy as a basis
• Model behavior on sb: To imitate someone’s behavior
• Model a system on sb: To develop a system based on another’s

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of model sth on sb:

• Model Sb After Sb
• Model Sb On Sth
• Model Sth After Sb
• Model Sth Upon Sth
• Model Sb Upon Sb

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation between two colleagues:

Anna: We need to improve our customer service. Any ideas?

Ben: Yes, I think we should model our approach on the company that won the award last year.

Anna: That’s a great idea. Their strategy really works well.

Practice

Choose the correct option to complete the sentence:

The new marketing campaign was _______ on the successful one from last year.

• a) modeled
• b) copied
• c) imitated

Answer: a) modeled

Fill in the blank:

They decided to _______ their training program _______ the industry leader’s method.

Answer: model / on

FAQs

• Q: Can “model sth on sb” be used with people and things?
  A: Yes, it refers to basing something on a person’s example or method.
• Q: Is “model sth on sb” formal or informal?
  A: It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
• Q: Can I say “model sth after sb”?
  A: “Model on” is more common; “model after” is less frequent but still correct.
• Q: Is “model sth on sb” separable?
  A: Yes, but usually the phrase stays together for clarity.
• Q: What is the difference between “model” and “copy”?
  A: “Model” implies inspiration and adaptation, while “copy” means exact duplication.