# simulate

/ˈsɪmjəˌɫeɪt/ (US) · /sˈɪmjʊlˌeɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/simulate
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

to create a model or a copy of something to see how it works. You often do this on a computer to test a situation without doing it in real life.

For teachers: to imitate the appearance or character of a process or system, typically for the purpose of study or training. Often involves the use of a mathematical or computer model to predict real-world outcomes.

## Examples

- Scientists use computers to simulate the weather.
- The flight software can simulate various emergency scenarios to help pilots practice their response times.
- By using advanced algorithms to simulate the structural stresses on the bridge, engineers identified potential points of failure before the first stone was even laid.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The program simulates to a real flight." but "The program simulates a real flight." — Simulate is a transitive verb and does not take the preposition 'to' before its object.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and requires a direct object representing the system or condition being imitated.

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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.