imitar (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Verb

Phonetic Transcription

• /imiˈtaɾ/

Translation Options into English

• Imitate
• Mimic
• Mirror

Meaning and Usage

The verb "imitar" means to replicate or reproduce the actions, appearance, sound, or characteristics of someone or something. It is used in various contexts, including general communication and specific fields like art and law, where it can refer to the imitation of styles, legal documents, or behaviors.

• Frequency of Use: "Imitar" is moderately frequent in both oral and written contexts. However, it is more commonly used in informal conversations or artistic discussions.

Example Sentences

1. Ella sabe imitar la voz de su cantante favorito.

2. She knows how to imitate the voice of her favorite singer.

3. Este artista intenta imitar el estilo de Picasso.

4. This artist tries to imitate Picasso's style.

5. Los niños suelen imitar a sus padres en sus acciones.

6. Children often imitate their parents in their actions.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "imitar" itself might not form many idiomatic expressions, it is often used within various phrases and contexts. Here are a few examples:

1. Imitar el comportamiento:
2. Es natural imitar el comportamiento de aquellos a quienes admiramos.

3. It is natural to imitate the behavior of those we admire.

4. Imitar la naturaleza:

5. Los diseñadores de moda intentan imitar la naturaleza en sus creaciones.

6. Fashion designers try to mimic nature in their creations.

7. Imitar a alguien/somebody:

8. No deberías imitar a alguien que no es un buen ejemplo.

9. You shouldn’t imitate someone who is not a good example.

10. Imitar el acento:

11. Aunque no hablo italiano, puedo imitar el acento de algunos hablantes nativos.
12. Although I don’t speak Italian, I can imitate the accent of some native speakers.

Etymology

The word "imitar" comes from the Latin "imitare," which means "to imitate." The root of this word is "imito" relating to the notion of copying or following someone else's example.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
• Repetir (to repeat)
• Copiar (to copy)

• Simular (to simulate)

• Antonyms:

• Innovar (to innovate)
• Original (original)

In summary, "imitar" is a versatile verb frequently used in various contexts to express the idea of copying or replicating, whether it be in art, behavior, or communication. Its application in idiomatic expressions reveals the social dynamics of mimicry and recognition within human interactions.