Model

v.capable, thoughtfulprofessional

What it means

To demonstrate a behavior, process, or standard that others can observe and follow.

Reach for it when crediting example-setting through visible conduct rather than instruction alone

Senior staff model calm communication during emergency drills.

everyday
practice
when consistently doing the behavior matters
not when Practice does not necessarily make the behavior visible or teachable to others.
everyday
show
when plain visible illustration is enough
not when Show is broad and may involve display rather than lived example.
warm
lead by example
when a leader's own conduct supports the requested standard
not when The phrase applies to leadership and can become a cliché without a concrete action.
warm
set an example
when conduct gives others a practical standard to follow
not when The phrase can sound moralizing and may imply others should copy one style.
professional
demonstrate
when showing how something works is the direct action
not when A demonstration can be one-off and need not embody the behavior consistently.
professional
illustrate
when an example clarifies a principle or method
not when Illustration can be hypothetical and does not require personal conduct.
professional
role-model
when explicitly performing the function of a role model
not when The hyphenated verb is less natural than model or set an example.
formal
embody
when a person or practice gives concrete form to a value
not when Embody is a stronger identity claim and need not help others reproduce the behavior.
formal
exemplify
when conduct serves as a particularly clear instance of a quality
not when Exemplify describes being an example, not intentionally teaching through it.

model behavior
Adults model behavior even when they do not intend to teach.
model good practice
The supervisor will model good practice before observing each trainee.
model respect
Leaders model respect by answering the difficult question directly.