Inklingo

How to Say "model" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “model” is “ejemplo” — use 'ejemplo' when referring to a person or thing that serves as an ideal standard or behavior to be imitated..

English → Spanish

ejemplo

/e-KHEM-plo//eˈxemplo/

nounB1general
Use 'ejemplo' when referring to a person or thing that serves as an ideal standard or behavior to be imitated.
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.

Examples

Mi hermano mayor es un gran ejemplo para mí.

My older brother is a great model for me.

Mi madre es un ejemplo de honestidad y trabajo.

My mother is a model of honesty and hard work.

Los líderes deben dar el ejemplo con sus acciones.

Leaders must set an example with their actions.

Esa atleta es un ejemplo a seguir para los jóvenes.

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

patrón

nounB1general
Use 'patrón' when referring to a standard, template, or design that serves as a guide or example, often in a more technical or artistic sense.

Examples

El arquitecto usó el plano como patrón para la construcción.

The architect used the blueprint as a model for the construction.

espejo

/es-PEH-ho//esˈpe.xo/

nounB2general
Use 'espejo' when you want to emphasize that something is a direct reflection or representation of a larger group or concept, serving as an example.
The clear, detailed reflection of a small green tree visible in a still puddle of water on the ground.

Examples

Su éxito en los negocios es un espejo de su dedicación.

His success in business is a model of his dedication.

Esta ciudad es un espejo de la diversidad cultural del país.

This city is a reflection of the country's cultural diversity.

Su disciplina es un espejo para sus compañeros de equipo.

His discipline is a model for his teammates.

Figurative Use

When used figuratively, 'espejo' means a faithful representation, showing things exactly as they are—like a window into a situation.

piloto

/pee-LOH-toh//piˈloto/

adjectiveB2general
Use 'piloto' as an adjective to describe a preliminary or experimental version of something, like a project or study, before it's fully implemented.
A miniature, rough wooden prototype model of a complex machine placed on a workbench, symbolizing a test run.

Examples

Estamos probando un programa piloto para mejorar la educación.

We are testing a pilot program to improve education.

Vamos a lanzar un proyecto piloto en tres ciudades antes de implementarlo a nivel nacional.

We are going to launch a pilot project in three cities before implementing it nationally.

La clase piloto fue un éxito y ahora se ofrecerá a todos los estudiantes.

The trial class was a success and will now be offered to all students.

Always Single Form

When used as an adjective meaning 'trial' or 'test,' 'piloto' usually remains singular and masculine, even if the noun it describes is plural or feminine (e.g., 'ciudades piloto').

Ejemplo vs. Patrón

Learners often confuse 'ejemplo' and 'patrón' when 'model' refers to a standard to follow. Remember, 'ejemplo' usually applies to behavior or personal qualities, while 'patrón' is more about a design, template, or established way of doing things.

Related Translations

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