set an example

Idioms  

1. Also,. Behave in a way that should (or will) be imitated, as in Dad was always telling Bill to set a good example for his younger brother, or They were afraid of setting a bad example for the other nations. [Late 1700s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

set an example

It may set an example for other strongmen too: Max is now available for download in dozens of countries allied with Moscow.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 1, 2026

A century ago, Henry Ford set an example that other major industrialists would follow, when he cut working hours for staff in his car factories and adopted a 40-hour, five-day week.

From BBC ● Feb. 8, 2026

To me, a Midwestern kid familiar with winter winds dragging their fangs across her face, Mary’s upright spine and sure gait set an example worth heeding.

From Salon ● Jan. 31, 2026

"We will set an example for the world."

From Barron's ● Jan. 1, 2026

They would set an example for the others.

From "Outcasts United: An American Town, a Refugee Team, and One Woman's Quest to Make a Difference" by Warren St. John