Resemble: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing a likeness, usually in appearance, between two things or people. Often used in a formal or neutral context.

• She closely resembles her mother
• The design of the new building resembles that of classic Roman architecture

Commonly used in informal contexts to describe visual similarities between people or objects.

• You look like your brother
• That cloud looks like a dragon

Used to indicate that two things share similar characteristics or qualities. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• His idea is similar to yours
• The two paintings are similar to each other in style and technique

Used mainly to describe family resemblances, indicating that someone has inherited traits or behaviors from an older family member. Often used in informal contexts.

• She takes after her father in many ways
• He takes after his grandfather with his love for gardening

Use 'resemble' to indicate when one thing looks like or is similar to another thing. It is often used to describe physical appearance or characteristics.

• The child closely resembles his father
• The new building resembles a castle

Use 'imitate' to describe following or copying the behavior, appearance, or sounds of someone or something. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts depending on the situation.

• Children often imitate their parents
• The comedian imitated the politician's speech for laughs

Use 'copy' to describe duplicating or reproducing something exactly. It can refer to written work, documents, behaviors, or actions, and can have a negative connotation if it implies a lack of originality.

• She copied all the notes from her friend's notebook
• He was caught copying during the exam

Use 'emulate' when trying to match or surpass someone by imitating their positive qualities or achievements. It often has a positive connotation and implies admiration and ambition.

• He tried to emulate his mentor’s dedication and work ethic
• She emulates the style of great artists in her own paintings