Make an example of somebody
verb phrase
To punish someone so others will learn not to behave in the same way.
If he continues to break the rules, we'll have to make an example of him for the rest of the team.
Often appears as...
- make an example of him
- make an example of her
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To use a person or situation as a model to either follow or avoid.
She made an example of her older sister's hard work for the younger children to learn from.
Often appears as...
- make an example of a situation
- make an example of good behavior
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To punish someone so others will learn not to behave in the same way.
If he continues to break the rules, we'll have to make an example of him for the rest of the team.
Often appears as...
- make an example of him
- make an example of her
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To use a person or situation as a model to either follow or avoid.
She made an example of her older sister's hard work for the younger children to learn from.
Often appears as...
- make an example of a situation
- make an example of good behavior
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Consequence Warning
Used to signal a consequence that serves as a warning to discourage similar behavior.
Management decided to make an example of the latecomer to enforce punctuality.
Pro Tip 2/3Authority's Message
Reflects an authority's stern message that rules must be followed.
The coach made an example of the player to show his no-tolerance policy for misconduct.
Pro Tip 3/3Public Deterrent
Punishment is often public to ensure the message is seen and understood by all.
The principal made an example of the pranksters in front of the whole school.
Pro Tip 1/3Consequence Warning
Used to signal a consequence that serves as a warning to discourage similar behavior.
Management decided to make an example of the latecomer to enforce punctuality.
Pro Tip 2/3Authority's Message
Reflects an authority's stern message that rules must be followed.
The coach made an example of the player to show his no-tolerance policy for misconduct.
Pro Tip 3/3Public Deterrent
Punishment is often public to ensure the message is seen and understood by all.
The principal made an example of the pranksters in front of the whole school.
Pro Tip 1/3Consequence Warning
Used to signal a consequence that serves as a warning to discourage similar behavior.
Management decided to make an example of the latecomer to enforce punctuality.
Pro Tip 2/3Authority's Message
Reflects an authority's stern message that rules must be followed.
The coach made an example of the player to show his no-tolerance policy for misconduct.
Pro Tip 3/3Public Deterrent
Punishment is often public to ensure the message is seen and understood by all.
The principal made an example of the pranksters in front of the whole school.
Never forget "Make an example of somebody"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension