Imitating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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imitating

[หˆษชmษชหŒteษชtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

behaviour

To copy or mimic someone's actions, speech, or mannerisms, often for comedic effect.

Synonyms

ape, copy, echo, emulate, mimic.

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Word Description / Examples
imitating

Used when describing the act of doing something in the exact same way as someone else. It is neutral and general.

  • The child was imitating his father's mannerisms
  • She loves imitating her favorite singer's voice
mimic

Describes closely imitating someone, especially in speech or behavior, often with the potential to be humorous or satirical.

  • The actor was very skilled at mimicking different accents
  • He mimicked his teacher's voice to entertain his classmates
emulate

Implies striving to match or surpass someone, often out of admiration. It is usually positive.

  • She tried to emulate her mentor's success
  • He admired his father and wanted to emulate his achievements
copy

Refers to creating an exact duplicate or doing something in the same way, typically without any changes. Usually neutral in tone.

  • He copied her homework answers
  • The artist copied the style of the old masters
echo

Used when repeating someone's words or ideas, often to show agreement or to extend their point. Can be neutral or positive.

  • She echoed her friend's sentiments
  • His speech echoed the thoughts of many in the audience
ape

Often used in a negative sense to describe mimicking someone in a clumsy or absurd way. It implies a lack of originality.

  • The comedian aped the politician in such an exaggerated manner that it was more mocking than funny

Examples of usage

  • She was imitating her favorite comedian's stand-up routine.
  • The child was imitating the way his father walked around the house.
  • He was imitating the boss to make his colleagues laugh.
  • Stop imitating me, it's getting annoying!
  • The parrot was imitating the sounds of the household.

Translations

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Origin of 'imitating'

The word 'imitating' comes from the Latin word 'imitatus', which means 'to copy or emulate'. The concept of imitation has been studied in various fields, including psychology, sociology, and linguistics. It plays a crucial role in learning and social interaction, as individuals often imitate others to acquire new skills or establish connections. Throughout history, imitation has been a subject of philosophical inquiry, with thinkers like Aristotle and Plato exploring its significance in human behavior.


See also: imitated, imitative, imitatively.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,048, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.