Impersonating: meaning, definitions and examples

This term usually means acting as another person with the intention of entertaining others or deceiving them. It can be neutral or carry a negative connotation, depending on the intention.

• He was arrested for impersonating a police officer.
• The actor did a great job impersonating the famous singer.

This term is used for acting in a way that makes something appear to be true when it is not. Commonly used in children's play or when adults are not being serious.

• The children pretended to be pirates.
• She pretended to be happy, but she was quite sad.

This word suggests putting on a disguise or taking on a false identity to deceive others. It often implies trickery or a party with masks and costumes.

• The spy had to masquerade as a diplomat.
• They attended a masquerade ball for Halloween.

This word is used when copying someone's actions, speech, or mannerisms, often to learn, play, or entertain. It can be positive or neutral.

• Children often imitate their parents.
• The comedian can imitate many famous actors.

Used when someone is pretending to be another person, often for deception or entertainment.

• He got caught impersonating a police officer.
• She enjoys impersonating famous movie stars during her comedy acts.

Used when someone is closely copying another person's voice, behavior or gestures, often in a humorous way.

• The comedian could mimic the president's speech perfectly.
• Birds can mimic human sounds.

Used when someone creates a humorous imitation of a piece of art, literature, music, or other forms of media.

• The movie is a parody of old spy films.
• He performed a parody of the famous speech that had everyone laughing.

Used when someone is copying someone else in a way that makes fun of them; it often has a negative connotation.

• He got in trouble for mocking his teacher's accent.
• The kids mockingly repeated everything she said.