Words / C1

EM-yool-ayt/ˈemjuleɪt/

To emulate is to copy a person or model in order to equal or match them: emulate a method, emulate a predecessor. Imitate is everyday and can be empty copying; copy is blunter; innovate sits opposite. Last year’s model is only a model if it named a spare.

Meaning

To copy someone or something in order to equal or match them.

Examples

• “Emulate last year’s staffing model only if it named a night spare.”
• “Imitate is everyday. Mimic can be mocking. A predecessor is a source. A blank night line is a warning. Copy the named spare, not the logo; or write a better rota.”

Good to know

Copy in order to equal. Everyday: imitate. Contrast: empty copying; innovate. Copy the spare on the rota, not only the letterhead.

Near in meaning

imitate

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