以身作则

Pronunciation: yǐ shēn zuò zé Literal meaning: Use oneself as example

Origin & Usage

To take (以) one's own person (身) and make (作) it the standard (则). 则 is a rule or a model in the strict sense — the thing others are measured against — so the claim is precise: not setting a good example in general but being the reference copy. Chinese applies it to parents, teachers and officials, and it carries the corresponding implication that failing to do it invalidates whatever you say. It is the standard requirement laid on anyone in charge.

Examples

English: "As a manager, she always leads by personal example, inspiring her team to follow suit."

Chinese: 作为经理，她以身作则，激励团队效仿。