Translation guide
The English verb "imitate" covers a range of actions from copying behavior to mimicking sounds. In Japanese, different words are used depending on what is being imitated and the intent behind it.
To do the same thing as someone else, often to learn or follow an example.
General verb for imitating actions or behavior. Can be used for both intentional and unintentional imitation.
Children imitate their parents' behavior.
Formal or technical term for imitation, often used in academic or artistic contexts.
Art imitates nature.
To follow someone's example, often with the nuance of learning from them. Implies respect and a desire to improve.
To copy someone's voice, gestures, or style, often to entertain or tease.
Specifically refers to mimicking someone's voice or mannerisms, often as a performance or joke.
To reproduce a sound, like an animal noise or a machine.
Used for imitating sounds in general.
To make something that looks like something else, such as a product or artwork.
Used for copying designs, products, or artistic styles. Can imply a counterfeit or a tribute.
To use something as a pattern to replicate or learn from.
To use as a model or example to follow. Often used when learning a skill.
真似る is the everyday word for imitating actions, sounds, or behavior. 模倣する is more formal and often used for copying products, art, or in academic discussions. 物真似する is specifically for mimicking voices or mannerisms as entertainment.
When talking about following an example to learn, 見習う or 手本にする are more natural than 真似る. Using 真似る might sound like you are just copying without understanding.
Children often imitate adults.
I tried imitating his way of speaking.
先輩を見習って頑張ります。
I'll do my best by following my senior's example.
He is good at imitating celebrities.
I imitated my friend and made everyone laugh.
Can also be used for mimicking, but 物真似する is more specific for performance imitation.
He imitated the teacher's catchphrase.
彼は鳥の鳴き声を真似た。
He imitated a bird's chirping.
Literally 'imitate a voice', used when specifically copying a voice or sound.
She is good at imitating the announcer's voice.
That brand sells products that imitate luxury goods.
Can also be used for copying styles, but 模倣する is more precise for products.
He imitated the style of a famous painter.
I started a business by imitating his success.
To follow a precedent or example. Often used in formal contexts.
We will handle it by following the precedent.
He can imitate the teacher perfectly.
This product imitates a famous brand.