以身作则

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Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The phrase 以身作则 literally means "to use one's own body as an example." It is commonly used to describe someone who leads by personal example, especially in leadership or teaching roles. When someone 以身作则, they demonstrate the behavior or standards they expect from others through their own actions.

Common Contexts

This phrase is often used in professional, educational, or social contexts where moral or behavioral leadership is important. For example, managers, teachers, or parents might be described as 以身作则 when they act as role models.

Collocations and Patterns

Nuances

Using 以身作则 implies a high level of responsibility and integrity. It suggests that words alone are insufficient without corresponding actions. This phrase is more formal and often appears in written or formal spoken Chinese.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse 以身作则 with simply "setting rules" or "giving orders." It emphasizes personal example rather than just verbal instruction.

Example Sentences

As a leader, he always leads by example, guiding the team to overcome

The teacher leads by example, so the students study harder.

Corporate culture emphasizes that management should lead by example to