ENGLISH
REFERENCE

emulate

v.
C1 Advanced US //ˈɛmjəˌɫeɪt// UK //ˈɛmjʊlˌeɪt// em·u·late Archaic

v. to try to be like someone or something else because you admire them. In computing, it means making one system act exactly like another one.

v. to match or surpass a person or achievement, typically by imitation. In a technical context, it refers to the reproduction of the functions of one system by a different system.


SIMPLE

She hopes to emulate her sister's success in business.

CONTEXTUAL

The new software allows modern computers to emulate older gaming consoles so users can play classic titles.

COMPLEX

While many young artists attempt to emulate the style of the old masters, the most successful eventually find a unique voice that transcends mere imitation.

Origin

First attested in 1586; borrowed from Latin aemulātus, perfect active participle of Latin aemulor (“to rival, emulate”), see -ate (verb-forming suffix) and -ate (adjective-forming suffix).

Usage

The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.

Pitfall

emulate to his fatheremulate his fatherEmulate is a transitive verb and does not require a preposition before the object.

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