Example vs Model

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Example

Top 1,000 (very common)A1noun

Model

Top 1,000 (very common)A1noun
 ExampleModel
Pronunciation🇬🇧 /["/ɪɡˈzɑːmpl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪɡˈzæmpl/"]/🇬🇧 /["/ˈmɒdl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈmɑːdl/"]/
MeaningA sample or model of something to show how it works.A representation or example of something that shows how it works.
ExamplePlease follow this example to complete your assignment.The model of the car was very popular among collectors.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 1,000 (very common)Top 1,000 (very common)
CEFR levelA1A1
Part of speechnounnoun
Collocationscharacteristic, classic, prime, give somebody, offer, provide (somebody with), demonstrate something, highlight something, illustrate something, for example, in an/​the example, example of, characteristic, classic, prime, give somebody, offer, provide (somebody with), demonstrate something, highlight something, illustrate something, for example, in an/​the example, example of, good, great, inspiring, set, show, follow, by example, example to, make an example of somebody, good, great, inspiring, set, show, follow, by example, example to, make an example of somebodyfull-scale, scale, three-dimensional, assemble, build, construct, aeroplane, airplane, car, model of, excellent, good, role, give somebody, present, propose, citizen, pupil, student, model of, model for, excellent, good, role, give somebody, present, propose, citizen, pupil, student, model of, model for, artist’s, glamour/​glamor, photographic, photograph, pose, shoot, pose for somebody/​something, sit for somebody/​something, artist’s, glamour/​glamor, photographic, photograph, pose, shoot, pose for somebody/​something, sit for somebody/​something, de luxe, luxury, popular, do, make, produce
Antonymscounterexample, exceptionoriginal, prototype
Common mistakesConfused with 'exemplary', which means perfect or model., Using 'example' in plural without 'examples' when talking about multiple cases., Mispronouncing it as 'egg-zample' instead of 'ig-zample'.Confused with 'mold' or 'mould', which refer to shapes or forms., Using 'model' as a verb without specifying the object it applies to., Mixing up 'model' (noun) with 'model' (verb) in context.
Usage notesUse 'example' when illustrating a point or providing a representation. It's suitable in most contexts, but avoid in very casual situations where simpler words may be more appropriate.Use 'model' when discussing representations, especially in science or design. It's less common in casual conversations unless talking about fashion or specific examples.

Frequently asked questions: Example vs Model

What's the difference between Example and Model?

Example: A sample or model of something to show how it works. Model: A representation or example of something that shows how it works.

Are Example and Model the same CEFR level?

Example: A1, Model: A1 on the CEFR scale.

Can I use Example and Model interchangeably?

Not always. Example and Model are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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