Definition

1. Verb:
   • To strive to equal or match, especially through imitation, often with the goal of achieving similar success or quality.
   • To imitate the function or behavior of a system, process, or person, typically in a technical or competitive context.
   • To compete with or rival successfully.

Usage and Examples

• General Usage (to imitate/match):
  • Young athletes often emulate the training routines of their idols.
  • The software was designed to emulate the behavior of the original hardware.
• Technical/Computing Usage (to imitate function):
  • This program allows a modern computer to emulate a classic gaming console.
• Usage (to compete with/rival):
  • The company hopes its new product will emulate the market leader's success.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "to emulate someone/something": This is the most common construction, focusing on the act of imitation with the intent of matching or surpassing.
  • Many writers try to emulate the concise style of Hemingway.
• The word often carries a positive connotation of admiration and a desire to achieve a high standard, rather than mere copying.

Variants and Related Words

• Emulation (n): The effort or desire to emulate.
  • His emulation of his mentor was evident in his work.
• Emulative (adj): Having the quality of or given to emulation.
  • She has an emulative spirit, always striving to match the best.

Synonyms

• Imitate: To follow as a model or pattern.
• Mimic: To imitate closely or precisely.
• Match: To be equal to or rival.
• Rival: To strive to equal or excel.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• In emulation of: Following the example of.
  • The policy was adopted in emulation of a successful model from another country.
• A spirit of emulation: A competitive desire to match or exceed others.
  • The coach fostered a healthy spirit of emulation among the team members.

Verb

1. compete with successfully; approach or reach equality with
   • This artist's drawings cannot emulate his water colors
2. imitate the function of (another system), as by modifying the hardware or the software
3. strive to equal or match, especially by imitating
   • He is emulating the skating skills of his older sister