German word

Vorbild

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈfoːɐ̯ˌbɪlt/

Meaning

  • neuter nounrole model

Example

Kinder brauchen gute Vorbilder.

Children need good role models.

Illustration for Vorbild (role model)

More examples

Er macht oft Fehler und ist kein Vorbild für die Klasse.

He often makes mistakes and is not a role model for the class.

Core concept

A visible example that stands out as a pattern for admirable conduct or qualities.

Common phrases

  • gutes Vorbild geben

    set a good example

  • als Vorbild gelten

    be considered a role model

Similar words

Beispiel: A specific example that illustrates a point, situation, or type.
Idol: A famous person who is widely admired and looked up to.
Ideal: A perfect state or guiding idea that serves as a goal.
Rollenmodell: A person whose conduct in a particular role provides a pattern to follow.

Definition in German

Eine Person oder Sache, an der man sich orientiert, weil sie gutes Verhalten oder gute Eigenschaften zeigt.

Word origin

The compound Vorbild developed from vor and Bild, referring originally to an image or example presented in front of someone.

Usage tips

  • Unlike English role model, German Vorbild can also describe a thing, system, or example rather than only a person.

Other meanings

  • modelnoun

Opposites

  • Negativbeispielbad examplenoun

Related words

  • vorbildhaftexemplaryadjective
  • Vorbildwirkungrole-model effectnoun

Word lists with this word