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
| Example | Model | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ɪɡˈzɑːmpl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ɪɡˈzæmpl/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈmɒdl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈmɑːdl/"]/ |
| Meaning | A sample or model of something to show how it works. | A representation or example of something that shows how it works. |
| Example | Please follow this example to complete your assignment. | The model of the car was very popular among collectors. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 1,000 (very common) | Top 1,000 (very common) |
| CEFR level | A1 | A1 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Collocations | characteristic, 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 somebody | full-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 |
| Antonyms | counterexample, exception | original, prototype |
| Common mistakes | Confused 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 notes | Use '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.