Inklingo

How to Say "role model" in Spanish

English → Spanish

ejemplo

e-KHEM-ploeˈxemplo

nounB1general
Use 'ejemplo' when referring to a person whose personal qualities, actions, or behavior serve as an inspiration or guide for others.
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 role 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.

referente

reh-feh-REHN-tehrefeˈɾente

nounB1general
Use 'referente' when describing a person or entity that is a benchmark, authority, or significant influence within a particular area or industry.
A golden trophy standing tall next to a group of smaller silver and bronze trophies, serving as the standard of excellence.

Examples

Ella es un referente en el mundo de la moda sostenible.

She is a role model in the world of sustainable fashion.

Esta empresa es un referente en el sector de la tecnología.

This company is a benchmark in the technology sector.

Ella se convirtió en un referente para las jóvenes científicas.

She became a role model for young female scientists.

Necesitamos un referente claro para medir nuestro progreso.

We need a clear point of reference to measure our progress.

One word for both genders

Even though 'referente' ends in 'e', it is usually used as a masculine noun ('un referente') when referring to an abstract concept or a group, but you can say 'una referente' if you are specifically talking about a woman as a role model.

Don't confuse with 'referencia'

Mistake: “Usar 'una referencia' para hablar de una persona que admiras.”

Correction: Use 'un referente' for a person or entity that serves as a model. 'Referencia' is better for citations in a book or directions to a place.

Ejemplo vs. Referente

Learners often confuse 'ejemplo' and 'referente' by using 'ejemplo' for established authorities or institutions. Remember, 'ejemplo' focuses on admirable personal conduct, while 'referente' points to influence and authority in a specific domain.

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