Translation guide
The English verb "mimic" covers a range of actions from neutral imitation to mocking or biological mimicry. In Japanese, different words are used depending on whether you are copying someone's speech, actions, appearance, or behavior, and whether the intent is playful, mocking, or protective.
To copy the way someone talks, moves, or behaves, often to make fun of them or for entertainment.
The most common and versatile word for imitating someone's speech or actions. Can be neutral, playful, or mocking depending on context.
He mimicked the teacher's way of speaking.
It's common for children to mimic their parents' tone of voice.
Specifically refers to imitating someone's voice or mannerisms, often as a performance or party trick. Strongly associated with impersonations.
He is good at mimicking celebrities.
Literally 'monkey mimicry'. A derogatory term for mindless, superficial imitation without understanding. Often used critically.
His method is just mindless mimicry.
To imitate the way someone looks, dresses, or presents themselves.
To reproduce a sound, voice, or noise, often for effect or practice.
When a living thing evolves to resemble another species or object for protection or predation.
The scientific term for biological mimicry. Used for insects, animals, or plants that mimic their surroundings or other species.
This moth mimics a leaf.
The verb form of 擬態, meaning 'to mimic' in a biological sense.
Chameleons mimic the colors of their surroundings.
To imitate the function or effect of something, often in technology or medicine.
Means 'to imitate' or 'to copy' in a more formal or technical sense. Used for replicating functions, systems, or behaviors.
This drug mimics the action of hormones.
Can also be used in casual contexts for simulating or replicating functions, but 模倣する is more precise for technical descriptions.
English 'mimic' can be a verb or a noun. In Japanese, you usually need to use a phrase like 真似をする or choose a specific word like 擬態 for biological contexts. Simply saying ミミック is not natural.
真似る is everyday language for copying someone's actions or speech. 模倣する is more formal and often used for imitating systems, styles, or in technical contexts. 模倣 carries a nuance of deliberate replication, while 真似 can be casual or even unconscious.
He often mimics his friends to make people laugh.
Comedians who can do vocal mimicry are popular.
Technology that allows AI to mimic human conversation is advancing.