# simulation

/ˌsɪmjəˈɫeɪʃən/ (US) · /sˌɪmjʊlˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/simulation
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a model or test

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

a model of a real situation, often on a computer, used to see what might happen.

For teachers: a computer model or mathematical representation of a system used to predict or analyse behaviour.

- The pilots spent hours in a flight simulation to prepare for the storm.
- The research team ran a complex computer simulation to determine how the new bridge would react to extreme wind speeds.

Usage: Often used with 'run' or 'perform'.

### 2. a realistic video game

noun · CEFR B1

a type of video game that tries to copy real-life activities like driving or flying.

For teachers: a genre of video game designed to mimic real-world activities with a high degree of technical accuracy.

- He enjoys playing a racing simulation because the car handling feels very real.
- Modern flight simulations offer such high fidelity that they are frequently used as supplementary tools for student pilots.

### 3. faking a foul

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the act of pretending to be tripped or hurt in a game to trick the referee.

For teachers: the act of feigning a fall or injury in order to deceive an official into awarding a foul or penalty.

- The player received a yellow card for simulation after falling in the penalty area.
- The referee was praised for his ability to distinguish between a genuine foul and a clever piece of simulation by the striker.

Usage: Commonly used in professional football (soccer) contexts.

### 4. pretending or feigning

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal · Literary

the act of pretending to have a feeling or a physical condition.

For teachers: the act of feigning or assuming a false appearance; a deceptive imitation of a state or quality.

- Her smile was a mere simulation of happiness to hide her true feelings.
- The spy's successful simulation of a local merchant allowed him to move through the city without drawing any suspicion from the guards.

## Examples

- The pilot practices landing in a flight simulation.
- Scientists used a computer simulation to predict how the virus might spread through a crowded city.
- Advanced climate simulations allow researchers to model atmospheric changes over centuries, providing a statistical basis for policy decisions regarding carbon emissions and environmental protection.

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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.