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ejemplo

e-KHEM-ploeˈxemplo

“ejemplo” means “example” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

example

Also: instance, illustration
NounmA1
A single, bright red apple is sitting on a simple surface, slightly separated from a large group of identical green apples in a wicker basket, demonstrating an example used to illustrate a point.

📝 In Action

No entiendo la regla. ¿Puedes darme un ejemplo?

A1

I don't understand the rule. Can you give me an example?

Me gustan las frutas, por ejemplo, las manzanas y las bananas.

A1

I like fruits, for example, apples and bananas.

El libro está lleno de ejemplos prácticos.

A2

The book is full of practical examples.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • ilustración (illustration)
  • muestra (sample)

Common Collocations

  • por ejemplo – for example
  • dar un ejemplo – to give an example
  • poner un ejemplo – to provide an example

model

Also: role model, precedent
NounmB1
A friendly adult bear is carefully planting a small sapling, while a smaller bear cub stands beside it and mimics the planting action with a tiny shovel, demonstrating a standard of behavior being imitated.

📝 In Action

Mi madre es un ejemplo de honestidad y trabajo.

B1

My mother is a model of honesty and hard work.

Los líderes deben dar el ejemplo con sus acciones.

B2

Leaders must set an example with their actions.

Esa atleta es un ejemplo a seguir para los jóvenes.

B2

That athlete is a role model for young people to follow.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Common Collocations

  • ser un ejemplo a seguir – to be a role model (to follow)
  • dar el ejemplo – to set an example (by one's actions)
  • predicar con el ejemplo – to practice what you preach / lead by example
  • tomar como ejemplo – to take as an example

🔀 Commonly Confused With

Translate to Spanish

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: ejemplo

Question 1 of 2

Which sentence uses 'ejemplo' to mean a 'role model'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
ejemplar(exemplary; a copy (of a book)) — Adjective / Noun
ejemplificar(to exemplify, to illustrate with examples) — Verb
🎵 Rhymes▼
templocontemplo
📚 Etymology▼

Comes from the Latin word 'exemplum', which meant 'a sample, a copy, or a model'. It's related to the idea of 'taking something out' (ex-) to serve as a pattern for others.

First recorded: Around the 12th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: example, sampleFrench: exempleItalian: esempioPortuguese: exemplo

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between 'dar un ejemplo' and 'dar el ejemplo'?

Great question, the difference is subtle but important! 'Dar un ejemplo' means 'to give an example,' like a teacher explaining a math problem. 'Dar el ejemplo' means 'to set the example,' referring to behavior you want others to copy, like a captain showing good sportsmanship.

Can I use 'ejemplo' for a sample of a product?

Usually, no. For a product sample you would ask for, you should use the word 'muestra' (sample). For example, '¿Puedo tener una muestra del perfume?' (Can I have a sample of the perfume?). 'Ejemplo' is for ideas, concepts, and behavior.