Meaning & use
scale model
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Meanings
nouncountable
a physical copy of an object that is made smaller or larger by a fixed proportion, so all parts keep the same relative size.
Grammar: Countable: you can say 'a scale model', 'two scale models'. Often followed by 'of': a scale model of the Eiffel Tower.
Patterns
- a scale model of something
- build/make a scale model
- a scale model kit
He built a scale model of the Titanic for the science fair.
The museum has a scale model of the entire city center.
This scale model is 1:24, so the car is twenty-four times smaller than the real one.
nouncountableinformal
a small copy of a vehicle, building, etc., made as a hobby or for display, often from a kit.
Grammar: Countable; common in hobby contexts. You can say 'a scale model plane' or 'a scale model of a plane'.
Patterns
- a scale model plane/car/train
- collect scale models
My brother collects scale models of World War II aircraft.
She spends her weekends painting scale models.
The shop sells scale model trains and accessories.
Word forms
| plural | scale models |
|---|
Common combinations
- scale model of
- They displayed a scale model of the new stadium.
- build a scale model
- It took him three months to build a scale model of the bridge.
- scale model kit
- This scale model kit includes glue and paint.
- 1:24 scale model
- He bought a 1:24 scale model of a classic sports car.
- detailed scale model
- The museum features a highly detailed scale model of the city.
Synonyms and how they differ
- model
- 'Model' is broader and can mean a person who poses, a design, or a simple toy; 'scale model' specifically means a copy made to a fixed proportion.
- miniature
- A 'miniature' is a very small version, but it doesn't have to keep exact proportions; a scale model always does.
- replica
- A 'replica' is an exact copy, often full-size; a scale model is usually smaller and made to scale.
Word family
Commonly confused: scale model or model?
scale model vs model
'Model' alone can mean a fashion model, a mathematical model, or a type of car. 'Scale model' is only the physical copy made to a fixed proportion.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'scale model' correctly?
Choose one answer.
A scale model is a physical copy made to a fixed proportion, so 'built a scale model of the Eiffel Tower' fits. Option A confuses it with a fashion model; option C is a mathematical model, not a physical copy; option D is a scale for weighing, not a model.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “scale model”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.