# imitation

/ˌɪməˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /ˌɪmɪtˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/imitation
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. the act of copying

noun · CEFR B2

the act of copying the way someone speaks, moves, or behaves.

For teachers: the act of mimicking or replicating the behaviour, speech, or appearance of another person.

- The comedian did a perfect imitation of the president's voice.
- Children learn social cues through the constant imitation of their parents and peers during early developmental stages.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'of'.

### 2. a copy

noun · CEFR B2

a thing that is made to look like something else, usually a cheaper version.

For teachers: a counterfeit or simulated object designed to resemble an original, often using less expensive materials.

- It looks like a real diamond, but it is actually just a clever imitation.
- The museum warned collectors that several high-quality imitations of the Ming vase were circulating in the private market.

### 3. not real

adjective · CEFR B2

made to look like something else, especially a natural material.

For teachers: functioning as an attributive modifier to describe a material that simulates a more expensive or natural substance.

- She prefers to wear imitation leather because she does not use animal products.
- The set designer used imitation marble for the pillars to keep the production costs within the strict theatrical budget.

Usage: Always placed before the noun it modifies.

## Examples

- The child did a funny imitation of his teacher.
- The designer bag was a cheap imitation made from plastic instead of real leather.
- While some critics dismissed the painting as a mere imitation of the master's style, others argued it demonstrated a profound understanding of his technique and lighting.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.