Imitation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to something designed to look like something else, often of lower quality or not genuine.

• She wore an imitation leather jacket
• The diamond in that ring is just an imitation

Common for describing an exact reproduction of something, especially documents or written content.

• Please make a copy of this letter
• He has a copy of the latest software

Refers to a precise copy of a specific object, often used for historical or collectible items. Typically, the term indicates high-quality detail and effort to match the original.

• The museum has a replica of an ancient Roman sculpture
• She bought a replica of the famous painting

Used when referring to a detailed and operational model used for study and practice, often in technology, gaming, or education.

• The pilot trained with a flight simulation
• The scientists ran a simulation to predict the outcomes

Used more often in biological contexts or when referring to the act of imitating someone or something, often for entertainment or learning.

• The lizard's mimicry helps it avoid predators
• His mimicry of the famous actor was spot on

Used when referring to something made to look like something else, often of lower quality. It can be neutral or negative.

• She bought an imitation leather bag.
• This cheese is an imitation of the original French product.

Used for a precise reproduction of an original item, often used in a neutral or positive sense, especially for art, historical artifacts, and collectibles.

• The museum displayed a replica of an ancient Greek statue.
• He constructed a replica of the famous ship.

Used to describe something that is made to look like or resemble the original, often referring to documents or works of art.

• He made a copy of the report for his records.
• The painting is an excellent copy of the original.

Used in a negative sense to describe something that is intentionally made to deceive or trick others into thinking it is genuine.

• She realized the watch was a fake.
• He was caught selling fake designer shoes.

Informal term for a cheap imitation of a popular product, often with negative connotations.

• Those sunglasses are just a knock off.
• She bought a knock off handbag for a fraction of the price.

Use when referring to a copy or replica of something, usually with a neutral or positive connotation. It can be about objects, actions, or behaviors.

• The jewelry was an imitation of a famous designer's work.
• The child's imitation of his father's walk was adorable.

Appropriate when discussing the act of pretending to be someone else, often to entertain or deceive.

• His impersonation of the celebrity had everyone laughing.
• The detective's impersonation of a suspect helped solve the case.

Use when talking about imitation, especially in the context of animals or behaviors that are copied for adaptation or survival reasons.

• The birds' mimicry of sounds helps them avoid predators.
• Her mimicry of her teacher's mannerisms was spot on.

This term has a negative connotation and is used when referring to an action that makes fun of someone or something.

• His mockery of her accent was hurtful.
• The parody show was all about mockery of political leaders.

Relevant in situations where someone is making a false appearance to deceive others.

• She attended the party under the pretense of being invited.
• His friendliness was just a pretense to get what he wanted.