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Prepositions after adjectives

Patterned after or patterned on?

Both patterned after and patterned on are used to mean modelled on something else, though patterned after is especially common in American English.

Quick answer

Should I use patterned after or patterned on?

Both patterned after and patterned on are idiomatic and mean based on a model or example. Patterned after is especially common in American English, while patterned on is also widely used.

The school system was patterned after the Finnish model.
Her writing style is patterned on classical poetry.

Choose the pattern by meaning

These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.

1
patterned after + model

Being based on an example

After introduces the original model or source of inspiration.

The garden was patterned after a Japanese design.
The costume is patterned after historical uniforms.
2
patterned on + model

Following a design or system

On also means based on or modelled on something.

The policy was patterned on earlier legislation.
Their logo is patterned on a traditional symbol.

See the difference in context

The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.

Construction
Example
Meaning
patterned after
The building was patterned after a Roman villa.
Based on or inspired by a model; very common in American English.
patterned on
The curriculum is patterned on the British system.
Also means based on a model or example.
modelled on
The product was modelled on earlier designs.
A close synonym often used in formal writing.

Common mistakes

Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.

Using patterned from for models

From is less natural when referring to a design source.

✕ The game was patterned from an old TV show. ✓ The game was patterned after an old TV show.

Confusing physical patterns with inspiration

Patterned can also mean decorated with a design.

✓ She wore a patterned shirt with blue stripes.

Adding unnecessary prepositions

Use one preposition only after patterned in this meaning.

✕ The system was patterned after on older methods. ✓ The system was patterned on older methods.

Quick practice

Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.

1. The museum was patterned ___ a medieval castle.
2. Their education system is patterned ___ European standards.
3. The design was modelled ___ traditional architecture.

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Frequently asked questions

Are patterned after and patterned on both correct?

Yes. Both are standard and mean based on a model or example.

Is there a difference between after and on?

The meaning is usually the same. Patterned after is especially common in American English.

Can patterned describe clothing?

Yes. Patterned can also mean decorated with repeated shapes or designs.

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