emulate
EM-yuh-layt
/ˈɛm.jə.leɪt/
To match or surpass a person or achievement, typically by imitation; in design, to reproduce the function of a natural system.
Emulate implies a degree of ambition—not just copying, but trying to equal the efficiency of the original.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'aemulatus,' meaning to rival or equal. Historically, it was used for students trying to equal their teachers; now, it describes engineers trying to equal the 'teaching' of nature.
Word relationships
- imitate: Imitate is more general; emulate suggests trying to reach a high standard set by the original.
- neglect: To ignore a model entirely.
Commonly confused with
- simulate: Simulate means to create a computer model or 'fake' version; emulate means to actually perform the same function.
Word family
- emulation (noun): The act of emulating.
Collocations
- strive to emulate
- successfully emulate
- emulate the behavior of
Example sentences
- "Engineers strive to emulate the efficiency of a bird's wing in the design of new drone rotors." Discussing the goals of modern engineering.
Memory hook
E-mulate: 'E' for Equal. You want to be Equal to the original. Copying to be just as good.
When not to use
Avoid using for simple physical copying; use 'replicate' for exact copies.
Fun facts
- In computing, an 'emulator' is a program that allows one system to behave like another.
Related words
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.