simulate

verb

ˈsim-yə-ˌlāt How to pronounce simulate (audio)
Definition of simulatenext
as in to pretend
to present a false appearance of cosmetics that simulate a suntan

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb simulate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of simulate are affect, assume, counterfeit, feign, pretend, and sham. While all these words mean "to put on a false or deceptive appearance," simulate suggests a close imitation of the appearance of something.

cosmetics that simulate a suntan

When can affect be used instead of simulate?

In some situations, the words affect and simulate are roughly equivalent. However, affect implies making a false show of possessing, using, or feeling.

affected an interest in art

When would assume be a good substitute for simulate?

Although the words assume and simulate have much in common, assume often implies a justifiable motive rather than an intent to deceive.

assumed an air of cheerfulness around the patients

Where would counterfeit be a reasonable alternative to simulate?

The words counterfeit and simulate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, counterfeit implies achieving the highest degree of verisimilitude of any of these words.

an actor counterfeiting drunkenness

How is feign related to other words for simulate?

Feign implies more artful invention than pretend, less specific mimicry than simulate.

feigned sickness

When is pretend a more appropriate choice than simulate?

The synonyms pretend and simulate are sometimes interchangeable, but pretend implies an overt and sustained false appearance.

pretended that nothing had happened

When is it sensible to use sham instead of simulate?

The meanings of sham and simulate largely overlap; however, sham implies an obvious falseness that fools only the gullible.

shammed a most unconvincing limp

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of simulate The first applications for the technology will likely include using the system to simulate cutting-edge physics, Kelly said. —Kif Leswing, CNBC, 25 Mar. 2025 In other words, Omniverse lets enterprises and cloud providers simulate an AI factory (from cooling layouts to networking) as a 3D model, test changes and troubleshoot virtually before a single server is installed. —Janakiram Msv, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025 Tensions have remained high in recent years, with near-daily Chinese warplane sorties across the Taiwan Strait's median line and military exercises simulating blockades of the island. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025 Authorities said the wild events started about 5:20 p.m. Wednesday in the 6400 block of Snake Road above Montclair Village when the 34-year-old suspect who was wearing a mask simulated a gun and stole a Honda belonging to a 35-year-old man. —Harry Harris, The Mercury News, 21 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for simulate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for simulate
  1. pretend
  2. assume
  3. affect
Verb
  • In the post, Oscar can be seen jumping into the ocean into his dad's arms, pretending to fly a plane, smiling with his mom Tana and cheesing on a blue truck.
    — Hannah Sacks, People.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • This prompt gives you enough talking points to contribute thoughtfully without pretending to be an expert.
    — Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Definition of pretend
Verb
  • And there’s usually some wiggle room, a premium being paid to reap future opportunities or a discount to assume some risk.
    — Evan Clark, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Kevin Brazile, in a tentative ruling issued on Thursday, denied CBS’ bid for a court order that would’ve temporarily blocked Sony’s efforts from assuming distribution.
    — Winston Cho, HollywoodReporter, 10 Apr. 2025
Definition of assume
Verb
  • The tariffs will primarily affect China, the largest importer of Venezuela oil.
    — Spencer Kimball, CNBC, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Despite having less than ideal marks on the NFLPA report card, Johnson doesn’t believe that will affect the Jets’ ability to attract free agents.
    — Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 1 Apr. 2025
Definition of affect

Browse Nearby Words

simps
simulate
simulated
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Cite this Entry

“Simulate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/simulate. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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