Wannabe: meaning, definitions and examples

Used informally to describe someone who desires to be like someone else, often seen trying hard but not quite succeeding. It can have a negative connotation.

• He's just a wannabe rockstar, copying other famous musicians.
• The office is full of wannabe entrepreneurs who haven't started their businesses yet.

Used in a formal or professional setting to describe someone who is ambitious and aiming for a specific position or goal. It often has a positive connotation.

• She is an aspirant for the CEO position in the company.
• Many political aspirants are campaigning vigorously in this election.

Used when someone is copying or mimicking another person, often in a superficial or insincere manner. It tends to have a slightly negative connotation.

• He's nothing but an imitator, recycling other people's ideas.
• The parrot is a great imitator, repeating exactly what you say.

Used in situations where someone is trying to replicate the success or actions of another, often through admiration and respect. This word is neutral.

• As an emulator of classical artists, he has learned many traditional techniques.
• She is an emulator of her mentor's teaching style, hoping to achieve similar results.

Used to describe someone who aspires to be like someone else or wants to fit into a particular group but lacks the talent or authenticity.

• He's just a wannabe rock star, strumming his guitar in the garage.
• She's a wannabe fashion designer, copying all the latest trends without creating anything original.

Informally used to describe someone who tries to impress others by pretending to be something they are not, often in the context of subcultures like music or fashion.

• He's such a poser, wearing a band's t-shirt but not even knowing their music.
• She was labeled a poser for pretending to be into skateboarding just to fit in with the group.

Used to describe someone or something that is fake or not genuine, often implying dishonesty or insincerity.

• He has a phony accent that he uses to impress people.
• The salesman came off as phony, always trying to sell something that didn’t work.

Used to refer to someone who intentionally deceives others, typically for personal gain. This word often has legal implications and carries a very negative connotation.

• The businessman was exposed as a fraud, having embezzled millions from his clients.
• Her charity turned out to be a fraud, with most of the donations going into her pocket.