object lesson
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- punishment intended as a warning to others
- they decided to make an example of him