Simulation: meaning, definitions and examples
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simulation
[ ˌsɪmjʊˈleɪʃən ]
computer science
The imitation of a real-world process or system over time, using a model to study and analyze its behavior.
Synonyms
emulation, modeling, replication.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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simulation |
Best used when creating a virtual representation of a real-world process or system for the purpose of study, testing, or training.
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modeling |
Used to describe the creation of a physical, mathematical, or conceptual representation of a system or process to analyze its behavior.
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replication |
Typically refers to the process of copying or reproducing something exactly, often used in scientific experiments to verify results or in data management.
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emulation |
Most appropriate in contexts where one system mimics another's functionality or behavior, often used in technology and computing.
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Examples of usage
- Simulation is often used in computer science to test the performance of algorithms.
- Engineers use simulation to predict how a new bridge will respond to different loads.
- The simulation of weather patterns helps meteorologists make more accurate forecasts.
gaming
A representation of a real-life situation or activity in a virtual environment, often for entertainment or training purposes.
Synonyms
emulator, simulator, virtual reality.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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simulation |
Used when referring to the act of imitating a real-world process or system for training, research, or analysis purposes.
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virtual reality |
Describes an immersive, computer-generated environment that can simulate real or imagined worlds, commonly used for entertainment, training, or therapy.
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simulator |
Describes a device or software designed specifically for the purpose of training or research by replicating real-life conditions.
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emulator |
Commonly used in technology to describe software or hardware that enables one computer system to behave like another, often for running software from a different platform.
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Examples of usage
- The video game offers a realistic simulation of flying a plane.
- Simulation games allow players to experience various scenarios and challenges.
- Virtual reality technology has revolutionized the way simulations are created.
education
A technique for learning and practicing skills through imitation or role-playing exercises.
Synonyms
imitation, practice, role-play.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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simulation |
Use this when referring to a detailed and often computerized reproduction of real-world processes or systems to study, test, or train.
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imitation |
This word fits when talking about copying the appearance or behavior of something or someone, often with the idea of replicating or mimicking features.
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practice |
Use this to describe the act of repeatedly performing an activity to improve skill or to rehearse for performance.
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role-play |
This is appropriate when participants act out specific roles in a controlled environment for training, education, or entertainment purposes.
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Examples of usage
- Medical students use simulation to simulate surgeries before operating on real patients.
- Simulations in language learning help students practice conversations in a safe environment.
- Role-playing simulations are often used in leadership training programs.
Translations
Translations of the word "simulation" in other languages:
🇵🇹 simulação
🇮🇳 अनुकरण
🇩🇪 Simulation
🇮🇩 simulasi
🇺🇦 симуляція
🇵🇱 symulacja
🇯🇵 シミュレーション
🇫🇷 simulation
🇪🇸 simulación
🇹🇷 simülasyon
🇰🇷 시뮬레이션
🇸🇦 محاكاة
🇨🇿 simulace
🇸🇰 simulácia
🇨🇳 模拟
🇸🇮 simulacija
🇮🇸 hermir
🇰🇿 имитация
🇬🇪 სიმულაცია
🇦🇿 simulyasiya
🇲🇽 simulación
Etymology
The word 'simulation' originated from the Latin word 'simulare', meaning 'to copy' or 'to imitate'. The concept of simulation has been used in various fields such as computer science, gaming, and education to replicate real-world processes or scenarios in a controlled environment for analysis, training, or entertainment purposes.
See also: dissimulate, simulatable, simulated, simulator.