modèle
/mɔ.dɛl/
The English phrase "role model" is translated into French as modèle.
The word modèle is used to describe a person whose behavior or success is emulated by others, particularly by younger people. In formal contexts, specifically when discussing someone who is a role model in terms of professional or social achievement, you may use the phrase modèle de réussite.
Which one should you use?
While modèle can also refer to a physical model, such as a scale model or a fashion model, it is the standard term when discussing a person's character or influence as a role model.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word modèle is masculine. Therefore, you typically use the masculine articles un or le to refer to a role model. While une modèle is increasingly used in modern spoken French for women, the masculine form remains the standard.
How do you pronounce it?
modèle is pronounced /mɔ.dɛl/. It has two syllables.
Did you know?
- The word modèle is used for everything from a human role model to a specific version of a car or a piece of software. It covers the concepts of 'example' and 'model number' simultaneously.
- While modèle is traditionally masculine, the shift toward une modèle for women reflects a broader linguistic debate in France about the feminization of professional titles.
- The word modèle is a diminutive of the Latin word modus, meaning 'measure'. It literally translates as a 'small measure' or a 'standard' that others can follow.
Examples in context
- Tom était mon modèle.Tom was my role model.This sentence shows how to use modèle to identify a past role model.Tatoeba #5829833 by Aiji, translation #5471308 by CK
- C'est sympa d'être un modèle pour les autres.It's nice to be a role model for others.This sentence illustrates the use of modèle when discussing being a role model for others.Tatoeba #3937942 by sacredceltic, translation #3731411 by CM
- Il est devenu un modèle pour son demi-frère cadet.He has become a role model for his younger stepbrother.This sentence demonstrates using modèle in the context of becoming a role model for a younger sibling.Tatoeba #3549326 by sacredceltic, translation #3549262 by catcher
- Les dirigeants de cette entreprise sont des modèles à suivre en matière d'éthique et de leadership.The leaders of this company are role models in terms of ethics and leadership.
- Mon grand-père est un modèle pour moi.My grandfather is a role model for me.
- Elle considère cette chanteuse comme son idole.She considers that singer as her role model.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Hugo and Chloé are talking about their favorite athletes.
- HugoQui est ton modèle dans le sport ?Who is your role model in sports?
- ChloéJe considère Serena Williams comme mon modèle.I consider Serena Williams as my role model.
- HugoC'est un excellent choix pour toi, Chloé.That is an excellent choice for you, Chloé.
- ChloéOui, elle a beaucoup d'influence sur moi.Yes, she has a lot of influence on me.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry modèle, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries modèle, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
