Imitation is the action or practice of copying someone or something. This word can be replaced by a wide range of synonyms, including simulation, replication, mimicry, emulation, counterfeit, facsimile, and copycat. Simulation refers to the process of recreating an experience or situation that is not physically present. Replication suggests the exact duplication of an object, while mimicry implies the imitation of another creature's behavior or appearance. Emulation is the act of imitating someone you admire in the hopes of matching or surpassing their success. Counterfeit refers to a fake or fraudulent object, while facsimile and copycat both imply the reproduction of an original or existing object.