How to Say “Role Model” in Spanish

modelo a seguir
/modelo a seɡiɾ/from spelling rules
In Spanish, the phrase for role model is modelo a seguir.
The phrase modelo a seguir refers to a person whose behavior or success is admired and imitated by others. A common and synonymous alternative you can use is ejemplo a seguir, which literally means 'example to follow'.

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase is composed of modelo (model) and the verbal phrase a seguir (to follow).

Which one should you use?

While modelo a seguir is a standard way to express this concept, ejemplo a seguir functions as a synonym. For more formal contexts, you may use the term Modelo a imitar, which means 'model to imitate'.

Is it said differently in some regions?

In Spain, the term modelo a seguir is commonly used to convey the concept of a role model.

How do you pronounce it?

/modelo a seɡiɾ/

Did you know?

  • The word modelo was not inherited directly from Latin but was borrowed from the Italian word modello.
  • In Spanish, the term ejemplo used in ejemplo a seguir can be used as a warning. While a 'role model' is positive, an ejemplo can also refer to a bad example that others should avoid.
  • The word seguir is also used to tell someone to 'keep going' or 'continue'. In this sense, a modelo a seguir is not just someone to imitate, but someone who represents a path to continue along.

Examples in context

  • Eres un buen modelo a seguir, Tom.
    You're a good role model, Tom.
    This sentence is useful for practicing the use of modelo a seguir.
    Tatoeba #5854109 by arh, translation #2954924 by CK
  • Mi profesora es un excelente ejemplo a seguir en el campo de la educación.
    My teacher is an excellent role model in the field of education.
  • Nelson Mandela es un referente en la lucha por los derechos humanos.
    Nelson Mandela is a role model in the fight for human rights.
  • Mi abuela es un modelo a imitar por su generosidad y bondad.
    My grandmother is a role model for her generosity and kindness.
  • Rafael Nadal es una persona a seguir en el mundo del tenis.
    Rafael Nadal is a role model in the world of tennis.
  • Ella es un excelente modelo a seguir.
    She is an excellent role model.
  • Busco un modelo a seguir en mi carrera.
    I am looking for a role model in my career.

Example conversation

María and Mateo are discussing their professional inspirations at a cafe.

  1. María

    ¿Quién es tu modelo a seguir?
    Who is your role model?
  2. Mateo

    Mi padre siempre fue un gran modelo a seguir.
    My father was always a great role model.
  3. María

    Él parece un hombre muy admirable.
    He seems like a very admirable man.
  4. Mateo

    Sí, es una persona increíble.
    Yes, he is an incredible person.

Sources

  • IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
  • Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, modelo, seguir, CC BY-SA 4.0.
  • Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
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Nicole Hazel
Nicole HazelHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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