French Conversation · Level 135
30 words
French word
imitation
Pronunciation
IPA/imitasjɔ̃/
Meaning
- feminine nounfake
Example
Cette montre est une imitation.
This watch is a fake.
More examples
La sculpture n'est qu'une imitation grossière.
The sculpture is nothing but a crude imitation.
Core concept
A crafted substitute that copies an authentic item's look or texture while remaining a different object.
Common phrases
une imitation grossière
a crude imitation
une imitation bon marché
a cheap imitation
Similar words
contrefaçon: A fake item illegally produced by copying a trademark or design.
copie: Something fashioned after another object to match its form and appearance.
reproduction: A faithful duplicate that recreates an original's shape and fine details.
Definition in French
Objet conçu pour imiter l'apparence ou la texture d'un article authentique, destiné à rappeler son style sans être l'original.
Word origin
French imitation comes from Latin imitatio, from imitari, meaning to copy, and passed through Old French before acquiring its modern senses.
Usage tips
- Imitation is a feminine noun, so the phrase is une imitation, and imitation cuir means imitation leather rather than genuine leather.
Other meanings
- imitationnoun
- copynoun
Opposites
- authenticitéauthenticitynoun
Related words
- imitateurimitatornoun
- imitatifimitativeadjective