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 Civilians also need to participate in live-fire exercises, which simulate realistic scenarios. — Daniel Byman, Foreign Affairs, 13 Mar. 2025 Filters have a more dramatic effect on images than Film Sims, with options that include a miniature effect that blurs part of the scene to simulate a photograph of a diorama, a low-fi toy camera filter, high and low-key exposure looks, and others. — PCMAG, 12 Mar. 2025 These chemicals are all housed in their own little capsules inside the e-Taste device, and released in different combinations and concentrations to simulate different foods. — Michael Irving, New Atlas, 3 Mar. 2025 The right-hander will throw one inning and simulate more in the bullpen. — Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 1 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for simulate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for simulate
  1. pretend
  2. assume
  3. affect
Verb
  • In most fields workers are prone to deny a problem and even pretend to enjoy the abuse.
    — James L. Edwards III, The Athletic, 13 Mar. 2025
  • Don't punish efficiency by piling on more work or forcing them to sit around pretending to be busy.
    — Jodie Cook, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025
Definition of pretend
Verb
  • The act's fine print states that the president can only assume this authority once Congress has declared war.
    — Rachel Treisman, NPR, 18 Mar. 2025
  • After all, the default for many people is not to intervene and assume everything's OK, even when things do seem amiss.
    — Charles Trepany, USA TODAY, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of assume
Verb
  • His footwork, his mindset, and he’s not affected by having one bad play.
    — Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 20 Mar. 2025
  • The crash affected entry into the Port of Baltimore for weeks as the debris blocked entry for other ships.
    — Ayesha Ali, ABC News, 20 Mar. 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 27 Mar. 2025.

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