Simulation: meaning, definitions and examples

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simulation

 

[ ˌsɪmjʊˈleɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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?

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Word Description / Examples
simulation

Best used when creating a virtual representation of a real-world process or system for the purpose of study, testing, or training.

  • The flight simulation helped pilots practice emergency procedures
  • The team ran a computer simulation to predict the storm's impact
modeling

Used to describe the creation of a physical, mathematical, or conceptual representation of a system or process to analyze its behavior.

  • The scientist used climate modeling to predict future weather patterns
  • 3D modeling was essential for the design of the new building
replication

Typically refers to the process of copying or reproducing something exactly, often used in scientific experiments to verify results or in data management.

  • The replication of the experiment confirmed the initial findings
  • Data replication ensures that all servers have the same information
emulation

Most appropriate in contexts where one system mimics another's functionality or behavior, often used in technology and computing.

  • The emulator allowed the old game to be played on a modern system
  • By observing her mentor's techniques, she sought emulation in her own work

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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?

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Word Description / Examples
simulation

Used when referring to the act of imitating a real-world process or system for training, research, or analysis purposes.

  • The flight simulation helped pilots practice emergency landings
  • Scientists use climate simulation models to predict weather patterns
virtual reality

Describes an immersive, computer-generated environment that can simulate real or imagined worlds, commonly used for entertainment, training, or therapy.

  • The virtual reality game lets players explore fantastical worlds
  • Architects use virtual reality to give clients a tour of their future homes
simulator

Describes a device or software designed specifically for the purpose of training or research by replicating real-life conditions.

  • The flight simulator is essential for pilot training
  • Medical students use a surgery simulator to practice techniques before operating on real patients
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.

  • Gamers use an emulator to play classic Nintendo games on their PC
  • The software development team used an emulator to test the mobile app on different operating systems

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.
Context #3 | Noun

education

A technique for learning and practicing skills through imitation or role-playing exercises.

Synonyms

imitation, practice, role-play.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
simulation

Use this when referring to a detailed and often computerized reproduction of real-world processes or systems to study, test, or train.

  • The engineers ran a simulation to see how the bridge would hold up under extreme weather conditions.
  • The flight simulation helped pilots prepare for emergency situations.
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.

  • The child's imitation of her teacher's mannerisms was quite impressive.
  • Imitation leather is a popular alternative to the real thing.
practice

Use this to describe the act of repeatedly performing an activity to improve skill or to rehearse for performance.

  • She spends hours in practice to perfect her piano skills.
  • Doctors undergo years of practice before they can treat patients on their own.
role-play

This is appropriate when participants act out specific roles in a controlled environment for training, education, or entertainment purposes.

  • In the workshop, employees did role-play exercises to improve their customer service skills.
  • The kids enjoyed a role-play game where they pretended to be different characters.

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.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,186, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.