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imitation
/ˌɪmɪˈteɪʃən/
copy of something
She bought an imitation of a designer handbag.
She purchased a fake version of a luxury bag.
neutral
A copy or reproduction of something that is meant to resemble the original.
The museum displayed an imitation of the Mona Lisa.
The museum showed a replica of the famous painting.
Children learn through imitation of adults.
Kids copy behaviors they observe in grown-ups.
Often implies a deliberate attempt to mimic or replicate, sometimes with the intent to deceive.
neutral
The act of copying someone's behavior, speech, or actions.
Her imitation of the teacher's voice was hilarious.
She humorously copied how the teacher spoke.
Common in social learning and performance contexts.
Collocations
close imitationa very accurate copyperfect imitationan exact replicalearn by imitationacquire skills by observing and copying others
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'emulation'
'Imitation' often implies copying without understanding (e.g., a child mimicking an adult), while 'emulation' suggests imitation with the goal of matching or surpassing the original (e.g., a software engineer emulating a successful product).
Gold Rule
When to use 'imitation' vs. 'fake'
Use 'imitation' for neutral or artistic contexts (e.g., 'an imitation of Van Gogh's style'). Reserve 'fake' for contexts involving deception or fraud (e.g., 'a fake ID').
Word Origin
From Latin *imitātiōn-* (stem of *imitātiō*), meaning 'a copying, imitation,' from *imitārī* 'to copy, mimic,' from *imāgō* 'image.' Entered English in the 14th century via Old French *imitacion*.
Usage Notes
While 'imitation' can imply deception (e.g., fake designer goods), it is also used neutrally in contexts like child development or performance arts. In art, 'imitation' historically referred to creating lifelike representations, as in classical aesthetics.
Word Breakdown
imit-
to copy or mimic
root-ation
process or result of
suffixEnglish Dictionary