Definition

Noun: 1. A practical illustration of a principle or ideal; a concrete example serving as a warning or model: An "object lesson" is a real-life instance or demonstration that clearly and memorably teaches a rule, moral, or consequence. It often involves making an example of someone or something to instruct others.

Usage

The term is used to describe a specific event, action, or case that serves as a powerful, tangible example from which a general lesson can be learned. It emphasizes learning through a direct, observed instance rather than through abstract theory.

Examples

• As a warning:
  • The severe punishment of the corrupt official was an object lesson in the consequences of abusing power.
  • The company's bankruptcy served as an object lesson in poor financial management.
• As a positive model:
  • Her dedication to volunteer work is an object lesson in compassion.
  • The peaceful protest was an object lesson in effective civic engagement.

Advanced Usage

• "to provide an object lesson in [something]": To serve as a clear, practical example of a specific quality or outcome.
  • The team's comeback victory provided an object lesson in perseverance.
• "to stand as an object lesson": To exist or be remembered as a definitive example.
  • The environmental disaster stands as an object lesson for future generations.

Variants and Related Words

• Exemplar (n): A person or thing serving as a typical example or excellent model.
• Cautionary tale (n): A story or event that serves as a warning about potential danger.

Synonyms

• Example
• Illustration
• Demonstration
• Case in point
• Parable (when in story form)

Related Idioms

• To make an example of someone: To punish someone severely as a warning to others. This is a common action that creates an "object lesson."
  • The judge made an example of the hacker to deter cybercrime.

Noun

1. punishment intended as a warning to others
   • they decided to make an example of him