jan4 baan2人板

Jyutpingjan4 baan2
Yaleyàhn báan

Definition

A real-life example or role model used to illustrate a point or serve as a lesson to others.

colloquialpeopledescriptions

How it's used

Literally meaning a human wooden board, this term refers to someone who serves as a living example of a specific behavior. It is frequently used in a negative sense to describe someone whose poor actions serve as a cautionary tale for others to avoid. When used positively, it implies someone whose conduct is worthy of imitation.

Measure word

go3go

Examples

He is always acting as a role model for the kids to see.
Don't follow his example and become a bad role model.

Common phrases

to serve as a role model or cautionary example

Common mistake

Learners often confuse this with the formal term 榜樣. While 榜樣 is neutral or positive, 人板 is often used sarcastically or critically to highlight someone's mistakes.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector