simulate
C1Formal/Neutral
Definition
Meaning
To imitate the appearance, character, or conditions of something.
To create a model or representation (often via computer) of a process or system in order to study its behavior; to pretend to have or feel an emotion.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The verb often implies a degree of artificiality or technical creation, especially in scientific/computing contexts. When referring to emotions or conditions (e.g., 'simulate interest'), it carries a connotation of insincerity or pretence.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences; 'simulate' is used identically in both varieties. Potential minor spelling differences in derivatives (e.g., 'simulation' has no variation).
Connotations
Identical across varieties.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in American English academic/technical corpora, but the word is common in both.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[VN][V that][VN -ing]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms with 'simulate' as the headword.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used in market simulations, risk modelling, and training scenarios (e.g., 'We simulated the merger's impact on quarterly revenue.').
Academic
Core term in computer science, engineering, physics, and social sciences for creating experimental models (e.g., 'The study simulates climate change under various emissions scenarios.').
Everyday
Less frequent. Can refer to pretending (e.g., 'He simulated enthusiasm for the plan.') or video game/VR experiences (e.g., 'This game simulates flying a fighter jet.').
Technical
Fundamental term for running computational models of real-world systems in science, engineering, medicine, and AI.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The new software can simulate extreme weather conditions with remarkable accuracy.
- He didn't feel ill; he was just simulating to get the day off.
American English
- The flight simulator perfectly simulates the experience of piloting a 747.
- She simulated interest in his lengthy story.
adverb
British English
- The event was simulatedly broadcast to test the network.
- Rarely used.
American English
- The data was generated simulatedly for the prototype.
- Rarely used.
adjective
British English
- The simulated leather on the sofa was surprisingly convincing.
- We conducted tests in a simulated zero-gravity environment.
American English
- The casino game uses simulated dice rolls.
- Pilots train extensively on simulated emergency landings.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- This video game simulates driving a lorry.
- The actor had to simulate fear in that scene.
- Scientists use computers to simulate the effects of global warming.
- Her smile was simulated, hiding her true disappointment.
- The economic model simulates market behaviour under various regulatory frameworks.
- The device simulates neuronal activity to study brain function.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SIMulator that you LATEly used – it IMITATES real conditions.
Conceptual Metaphor
CREATING IS IMITATING (The simulation is a crafted copy of reality).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid confusing with 'симулировать' in its negative, 'malingering' sense (e.g., to fake an illness). English 'simulate' is broader and more technical. The Russian 'моделировать' is often a closer match in scientific contexts.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'simulate' to mean 'stimulate' (to encourage). Incorrect: 'The coffee will simulate your mind.' Correct: 'The coffee will stimulate your mind.'
Practice
Quiz
In which context does 'simulate' MOST OFTEN imply deception?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are often confused. 'Simulate' means to imitate or model. 'Stimulate' means to encourage or incite activity (e.g., 'Coffee stimulates the brain').
Yes, but typically with a negative connotation of pretence (e.g., 'simulate illness', 'simulate interest'). For positive imitation of people, 'emulate' is better.
The primary noun is 'simulation'. A person or thing that simulates is a 'simulator'.
No, while often digital today, simulations can be physical (e.g., a mock-up cockpit for pilot training) or even role-playing exercises.